International Whisky Day which is on 27th March and marks a perfect occasion to raise a glass and explore the world of whisky through some creative cocktails. Whether you’re a fan of smooth Scotch, bold bourbon, or aromatic Irish whisky, these whiskey-based drinks offer a unique twist on traditional favorites. Here are some must-try whisky-inspired cocktails to celebrate the day in style:
Chivas XV – Citrine Gold Rush
If you’re looking for a refreshing, citrusy cocktail with a touch of honeyed sweetness, the Citrine Gold Rush is the perfect choice! This golden concoction blends Chivas XV with fresh lemon juice, honey syrup, and soda water, topped with a refreshing orange slice and mint sprig. A drink that’s as bright and uplifting as the sun, this is a great pick for a mellow evening of whisky sipping.
Ingredients:
40ml Chivas XV
20ml Lemon Juice
20ml Honey Syrup
40ml Soda Water
Orange Slice (Garnish)
Mint Sprig (Garnish)
Method: Shake ingredients with ice, strain into a highball glass, garnish with an orange slice and mint sprig. 
Jameson JGL
For a classic yet simple whiskey cocktail, look no further than the Jameson JGL. This refreshing and light drink is perfect for those who enjoy the smooth, spicy flavor of Irish whisky. Topped off with a squeeze of lime, it’s a cocktail that’s both easy to make and easy to drink.
Ingredients:
45ml Jameson
Ginger Ale (to top up)
Lime Wedge (Squeeze)
Method: Fill a highball glass with ice, pour in Jameson, top up with ginger ale, and finish with a squeeze of lime.
The Glenlivet Caribbean Reserve – Punch Fresco
For a tropical twist on whiskey, the Punch Fresco using The Glenlivet Caribbean Reserve brings together the sweetness of fresh watermelon and the smoothness of single malt whisky. This cocktail is a refreshing choice for those who want to enjoy whisky in a more laid-back, fruity form. Perfect for sipping on a warm day!
Ingredients:
75ml The Glenlivet Caribbean Reserve
4 Watermelon Chunks (or 75ml Watermelon Juice)
1 tsp Sugar Cane or Agave
Tajin (for garnish)
Method: Muddle the ingredients, add ice, garnish with lemon and mint slices, and optionally rim the glass with Tajin for a zesty kick.
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Crafters Reserve- Whisky Sour
A true classic, the Whisky Sour is an elegant choice for those who Whisky. This cocktail combines whisky with fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and optional egg white for a silky smooth texture. A few drops of Angostura bitters on top add a layer of complexity, making this timeless drink the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and bitter.
Ingredients:
60ml Whisky (Crafters Reserve)
22ml Fresh Lemon Juice
15ml Simple Syrup (1:1 sugar and water)
1 Egg White (optional)
Ice
Angostura Bitters (optional)
Lemon Wheel or Cherry (for garnish)
Method: Shake Crafters Reserve whisky, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white (if using) without ice. Add ice and shake again until chilled. Strain into a rocks glass or coupe glass, garnish with a lemon wheel or cherry, and optionally add bitters on top.
Jim Beam White– Paan Banaras Wala
Experience the bold and refreshing twist of Daru Desi featuring Jim Beam Bourbon Whisky! This cocktail brings together the smooth richness of bourbon with the tang of lime juice, the sweetness of apricot puree, and a hint of bitters. The recipe is curated by Cedrik Rodrigues, Beverages – Manager at Hitchki. Its a must0try for this International Whisky Day!
Ingredients:
60 ml Jim Beam White
2 no Fresh Paan
1 mg Cloves
10 gms Gulkand
30 ml Pineapple Juice
10 ml Sugar Syrup
1 dash Homemade Angostura
Paan
100 gms Ice
Method:
Muddle and shake all ingredients over ice and fine strain in a chilled Coupe glass and Half Cut Paan for garnish.
Woodford – Tropical Bourbon
This cocktail offers a delightful fusion of flavors, blending the richness of bourbon with the sweet, tangy notes of passion fruit and the zesty brightness of lime juice. This is specially curated by Shivalal, Bartender at Hyatt Centric Hebbal Bengaluru.
Ingredients:
45ml Woodford Bourbon
35ml Lime juice
20ml Passion Fruit puree
10ml Basil infused Syrup
2 dashes Orange Bitters
Method:
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, the bourbon, lime juice, passion fruit puree, basil-infused syrup, and orange bitters. Shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass.Garnish with passion fruit and basil leaves.
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