Whiskey is one of the most versatile spirits in the world, enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as the backbone of some of the greatest cocktails ever created. From smooth American bourbon to peaty Scotch and silky Irish whiskey, there’s a whiskey cocktail to suit every mood and occasion.
This list of the 10 best whiskey cocktails isn’t official or scientific, but it’s built from the popularity of recipes on our site, a splash of history, and a healthy dose of personal judgement. Each one is a timeless classic worth trying — responsibly, of course!
So here’s our roundup of the top 10 whiskey cocktails you should know.
10. Whiskey Sour
The Whiskey Sour is the entry point for many whiskey lovers. Simple but perfectly balanced, it combines whiskey, lemon juice, and sugar syrup, often with an optional egg white for a silky texture. Tangy, refreshing, and smooth — it’s a true classic.
9. John Collins
The John Collins is essentially a tall, sparkling twist on the Whiskey Sour, lengthened with soda water. Served in a highball glass, it’s refreshing and sessionable, perfect for summer afternoons.
8. Irish Coffee
The Irish Coffee is proof that whiskey can be both a warming nightcap and a pick-me-up. A comforting blend of hot coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and cream, it’s a winter favourite that has stood the test of time.
7. Bourbon Flip
The Bourbon Flip is rich, creamy, and indulgent — made with bourbon, sugar, a whole egg, and a dusting of nutmeg. More of a dessert-style drink, it’s best enjoyed in colder months or after dinner.
6. Hot Toddy
The Hot Toddy is the ultimate cold-weather cocktail. Made with whiskey, honey, lemon, and hot water, it’s soothing, aromatic, and often enjoyed as a winter warmer (or even as a traditional home remedy for colds).
5. Vieux Carré
The Vieux Carré is a complex New Orleans classic that blends rye whiskey, cognac, sweet vermouth, Bénédictine, and bitters. It’s strong, layered, and sophisticated — a true sipping cocktail.
4. Sazerac
The Sazerac is one of the oldest cocktails in the world, hailing from New Orleans. With rye whiskey, absinthe, sugar, and bitters, it’s bold and aromatic, best enjoyed slowly.
3. Rob Roy
The Rob Roy is essentially the Scotch whisky version of a Manhattan, made with sweet vermouth and bitters. Malty, smooth, and a little smoky, it’s a must-try for Scotch fans.
2. Manhattan
The Manhattan is one of the most iconic whiskey cocktails ever created. A mix of rye or bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters, it’s rich, balanced, and endlessly elegant.
1. Old Fashioned
Topping our list is the Old Fashioned – the grandfather of cocktails. With nothing more than whiskey, sugar, bitters, and water (or a splash of soda), it embodies the very definition of a classic. Timeless, simple, and perfect.
Closing note
Whether you prefer the refreshing fizz of a John Collins, the indulgence of a Bourbon Flip, or the sophisticated punch of a Manhattan, there’s a whiskey cocktail here for every taste. If you enjoyed this list, you might also like our roundup of the 10 best gin cocktails or our guide to the Top 10 cocktails in the world.