Whiskey and bitters are a match made in heaven. The smooth, rich flavor of whiskey is expertly balanced by the sharp, bitter taste of bitters.
It's a combination that has stood the test of time, with whiskey bitters cocktails being enjoyed for decades.
But what makes a great whiskey bitters cocktail? Is it the quality of the whiskey?
The type of bitters used? Or is it the skill of the bartender that makes all the difference?
The truth is, it's a combination of all three.
A great whiskey bitters cocktail requires a high-quality whiskey, expertly paired with the right bitters and mixed to perfection by a skilled bartender.
In this blog post, we'll be taking a closer look at the best whiskey bitters cocktail recipes.
From classics like the Old Fashioned to modern twists like the Boulevardier, we'll explore the history and ingredients of each recipe, as well as tips for making them at home.
So, whether you're a seasoned whiskey drinker or a newbie looking to expand your cocktail repertoire, sit back, pour yourself a glass of your favorite whiskey, and get ready to discover the best whiskey bitters cocktail recipes.
1. Black Walnut Social
The Black Walnut Social is a whiskey bitters cocktail that is perfect for those who enjoy a little bit of spice and darkness in their drinks. It's made with black walnut bitters, which add a unique and potent flavor to the cocktail. The use of Cardamaro, a wine-based amaro, gives the drink a herbally and spicy taste.
This cocktail is great for sipping by the fire, entertaining friends, or ending your day after the kids go to bed. It's smooth and delicious, but be careful, it's also quite boozy. If you're a fan of Negronis or Old Fashioneds, you'll definitely want to give this cocktail a try.
2. Black Walnut Old Fashioned
The Black Walnut Old Fashioned is a unique twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail, perfect for whiskey lovers looking for a cozy and flavorful drink. Made with black walnut bitters, this cocktail has a rich and nutty taste that is perfect for fall.
The addition of maple syrup or simple syrup can add a touch of sweetness to the drink, making it even more enjoyable. This cocktail is a great option for those looking to switch up their usual Old Fashioned recipe and try something new. If you're a fan of bourbon, this cocktail is a must-try.
3. Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. Made with whiskey, bitters, sugar, and a citrus twist, this drink is simple yet sophisticated. The bitters add a complex flavor profile to the drink, while the sugar balances out the bitterness.
The citrus twist provides a refreshing finish to the cocktail. The Old Fashioned is a perfect drink for those who enjoy a strong, flavorful cocktail. If you're looking for a timeless drink that never goes out of style, the Old Fashioned is a must-try.
4. The Trinidad Sour
"The Trinidad Sour" is a modern classic Whiskey Bitters Cocktail that features an unprecedented amount of Angostura bitters, along with lemon juice, orgeat syrup, and whiskey.
The sheer amount of bitters used may seem unpalatable, but it melds with the sweet and sour flavors to create a surprisingly balanced drink that is sour, complex, and herbal, with a bitter finish. This cocktail is perfect for impressing well-versed drinkers and is a unique experience that is definitely worth a try.
5. Maple Old Fashioned Cocktail
The Maple Old Fashioned Cocktail is a twist on the classic old fashioned cocktail that uses maple syrup instead of sugar. This cocktail is made with good-quality bourbon, a hint of maple syrup, and a generous twist of orange peel. The maple syrup adds a warm, rich, caramel-y flavor to the bourbon, making it a perfect cocktail to enjoy during the fall season.
The addition of bitters and a Luxardo cherry on top balances the sweetness of the maple syrup, creating a perfectly balanced cocktail. If you're a fan of old fashioned cocktails, then you definitely need to try this maple sweetened version.
6. Manhattan
The Manhattan is a classic whiskey cocktail that has stood the test of time. Made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, this cocktail is a perfect balance of flavors. While traditionally made with rye whiskey, the Manhattan can be made with a variety of whiskies, including bourbon and Canadian whiskey.
The addition of bitters adds a subtle herbal undertone to the drink, making it a great choice for any occasion. Whether served straight up or on the rocks, the Manhattan is a must-try cocktail for any whiskey lover. So, if you're looking for a classic cocktail with a timeless appeal, give the Manhattan a try.
7. Rosemary and Honey Whiskey Cocktail
The Rosemary and Honey Whiskey Cocktail is a delightful twist on the classic Old Fashioned. Infused with rosemary and honey, this cocktail is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. The addition of rye whiskey gives it a spicy kick that is sure to please any whiskey lover.
What makes this cocktail stand out is the infused simple syrup, which takes it to the next level. This cocktail is easy to make and is perfect for impressing guests at any gathering. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful whiskey cocktail, the Rosemary and Honey Whiskey Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
8. Perfect Manhattan Cocktail
The Perfect Manhattan Cocktail is a classic drink that every whiskey lover should try. This cocktail is a perfect blend of Bourbon, cherry, bitters, and vermouth, making it a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts. Legend has it that the drink was invented in the 1870s at the Manhattan Club in New York City for a banquet hosted by Lady Randolph Churchill.
Since then, it has become a fashionable drink that is easy to make at home. The Perfect Manhattan Cocktail is a great way to impress your guests and show off your bartending skills. So, if you are looking for a sophisticated and delicious cocktail, give the Perfect Manhattan Cocktail a try.
9. Pine Old Fashioned
The Pine Old Fashioned is a perfect winter cocktail that is a twist on the classic Old Fashioned. This cocktail is made with a subtle pine simple syrup that complements the sweet caramel flavors found in many bourbons. The Elk Rider Bourbon, with hints of honey and cinnamon, pairs well with the pine syrup to create a holiday feel.
The addition of Angostura Bitters adds warm baking spices and a hint of bittersweet herbal notes to the cocktail. The Pine Old Fashioned is a great sipping cocktail, perfect for enjoying next to a fireplace or as a holiday cocktail. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful whiskey bitters cocktail, the Pine Old Fashioned is definitely worth trying.
10. Bourbon Manhattan
Looking for a classic and easy-to-make whiskey cocktail? Look no further than the Bourbon Manhattan. This cocktail has been around since the 1870s and is made with only three ingredients: bourbon whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. The key to a great Bourbon Manhattan is finding the right balance between the smoky, sweet burn of the bourbon and the sweet, herbaceousness of the vermouth.
While there is some debate about which bourbon is the best for this cocktail, a smooth bourbon without too much smoke or sweetness is generally preferred. If you're a fan of whiskey cocktails, you won't want to miss out on this classic drink.
11. Winter Rye Sour Cocktail
The Winter Rye Sour Cocktail is a perfect whiskey bitters cocktail for the winter season. This cocktail is a combination of rye whiskey, buttered brown sugar syrup, cynar, allspice dram, Angostura bitters, lemon juice, and egg white. The spiciness of the rye whiskey, combined with the warm flavors of the buttered brown sugar syrup and allspice dram, makes this cocktail complex and flavorful.
The addition of egg white gives the cocktail a nice, foamy texture. This is a great cocktail to enjoy during the cold winter months, and it's easy to make at home. If you're a fan of whiskey bitters cocktails, the Winter Rye Sour Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
12. Burnt Orange Old Fashioned
The Burnt Orange Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail with a twist. This cocktail recipe is made with bourbon whiskey, bitters, sugar, and a burnt orange peel for a rustic and smoky flavor. The burnt orange peel adds a zesty aroma and enhances the flavor of the drink.
This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a warm and rich taste of bourbon whiskey. The Burnt Orange Old Fashioned is a great choice for those who want to try a classic cocktail with a modern twist.
13. Old Fashioned Cocktail
The Old Fashioned Cocktail is a timeless classic that has been enjoyed for generations. This bourbon-based cocktail is sweetened with sugar and mixed with angostura bitters to create a perfect balance of flavors. The addition of an orange twist and a Luxardo cherry adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to this already refined drink.
The Old Fashioned Cocktail is a must-try for whiskey lovers and is perfect for any occasion, whether it be a night out with friends or a quiet evening at home. Its rich and complex flavor profile is sure to leave a lasting impression and make it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.
14. Old Fashioned Paloma
The Old Fashioned Paloma is a delightful and refreshing whiskey cocktail that combines the best of two classics – the Paloma and the Old Fashioned. With bourbon and crisp grapefruit as the main ingredients, a squeeze of lemon or lime adds a zing of freshness while a couple of dashes of Angostura bitters keep things interesting.
This cocktail is perfect for any occasion, whether you're sipping it on a summer afternoon or warming up on a winter evening. It's easy to make and can be customized to your liking with your choice of whiskey, grapefruit soda, and bitters. If you're a fan of whiskey cocktails, the Old Fashioned Paloma is definitely worth a try.
15. Rye Port Manhattan Cocktail
The Rye Port Manhattan Cocktail is a unique twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail. Instead of using sweet vermouth, this recipe calls for ruby port, which gives the cocktail a rich and fruity flavor. The cocktail is made with rye whiskey, bitters, and a splash of port, and can be served either on the rocks or without ice.
The orange peel or brandied cherry garnish adds a nice touch to the drink. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to try something new and exciting, while still enjoying the classic flavors of a Manhattan.
16. Manhattan Cocktail
The Manhattan Cocktail is a classic and timeless drink that has been enjoyed for over a century. Made with rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and a dash of bitters, this cocktail is a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. The use of vermouth and bitters helps to mellow out the whiskey, making it a smooth and easy-to-drink cocktail.
The Manhattan is a perfect drink for those who enjoy the taste of whiskey but want something a little more refined. Whether you prefer rye or bourbon, this cocktail is a must-try for any whiskey lover. So, the next time you're in the mood for a classic cocktail, try a Manhattan and experience the timeless taste of this iconic drink.
17. Delicious Chocolate Old Fashioned
The Delicious Chocolate Old Fashioned is a perfect cocktail to celebrate National Chocolate Day. This cocktail is a twist on the classic old fashioned, with a base of bourbon and Ballotin Whiskey Original Chocolate, which adds a lush blend of dark chocolate notes and whiskey flavors. The addition of orange and chocolate bitters makes this cocktail a delectable combination.
The garnish of a chocolate rim and a dried orange chip dipped in melted chocolate adds a touch of decadence to this already indulgent cocktail. The Ballotin line of flavored whiskies is approachable to whiskey newbies and interesting for bourbon enthusiasts alike. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves chocolate and whiskey.
18. Vampire Cynar Negroni
Looking for a spooky twist on a classic Negroni cocktail? Look no further than the Vampire Cynar Negroni. This flavorful cocktail swaps out traditional gin for St. George Distilling's Dry Rye Reposado Gin, which brings a spicy warmth to the drink.
Cynar, an Italian digestivo, adds a sweet earthiness and a midnight color, while strawberry-infused Campari provides the expected bitter note with a hint of berry. The cocktail is garnished with a smoking sprig of rosemary and finished with a touch of dry ice for a spooky, foggy effect. Perfect for Halloween parties or any time you want to add a little drama to your cocktail hour.
19. Cuban Old Fashioned
The Cuban Old Fashioned is a unique twist on the classic old fashioned cocktail. This recipe incorporates Cuban coffee and bitters with bourbon to create a bold and flavorful drink. The use of Old Forester 86 Proof Bourbon adds a smooth and nutty taste to the cocktail, while the espresso simple syrup provides a sweet and slightly spicy kick.
This cocktail is perfect for those who love both coffee and bourbon, and is sure to impress any whiskey lover. Whether you're looking for a new and exciting way to enjoy your favorite whiskey or simply want to try something different, the Cuban Old Fashioned is definitely worth a try.
20. Apple Cider Manhattan
The Apple Cider Manhattan is a delightful twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail, perfect for fall. This cocktail combines the sweetness of apple cider with the complex herbal notes of bitters and the smoothness of whiskey. The use of Cut Spike Single Malt whiskey adds hints of oak and toffee, which pair perfectly with the sweet tartness of the cider.
The dash of simple syrup can be added for those who prefer a sweeter cocktail. The apple cider adds a caramel color to the drink, making it visually appealing as well. Overall, the Apple Cider Manhattan is a smooth sipper, perfect for a cool fall evening by a fire.
21. Smoked Rosemary Old Fashioned
The Smoked Rosemary Old Fashioned is a unique twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail. It's a bourbon-based drink infused with the smoky flavor of rosemary, which adds a warming and aromatic touch to the drink.
The method of smoking the drink without a smoking gun is impressive, and the presentation with a singed sprig of rosemary as a garnish is sophisticated. If you're a fan of classic cocktails and looking for something new to try, the Smoked Rosemary Old Fashioned is definitely worth a shot.
22. Rob Roy
The Rob Roy is a classic Scotch cocktail that has been around since the 19th century. It is a simple yet flavorful cocktail that is similar to a Manhattan made with Scotch instead of bourbon. The sweetness of vermouth and reddish coloring make it stand apart from the regular Manhattan.
This warming cocktail is perfect to unwind after a long day and is not too overpowering. The Rob Roy is easy to make and hard to get wrong as long as you have a nicely blended scotch. If you are a fan of Scotch, you will definitely enjoy this cocktail.
23. Sazerac
The Sazerac cocktail is a classic whiskey bitters cocktail that originated in New Orleans. It is made with Sazerac Rye, Peychaud’s Bitters, Herbsaint, a sugar cube, and a lemon peel. The cocktail has a rich history that dates back to the 1800s and is considered the official cocktail of New Orleans.
The unique blend of ingredients creates a complex flavor profile that is sure to delight whiskey enthusiasts. The ritual of making the cocktail is part of its charm and is a tradition in New Orleans. If you're looking for a classic cocktail with a rich history and complex flavors, the Sazerac is definitely worth trying.
24. Blueberry Smash
The Blueberry Smash is a unique and flavorful twist on the classic Whiskey Bitters Cocktail. This cocktail uses bourbon as its base and combines it with muddled blueberries, lemon simple syrup, and bitters. The addition of absinthe adds a touch of complexity and enhances the cocktail's aroma.
The Blueberry Smash is a perfect cocktail for those who enjoy a fruity and slightly sweet drink with a hint of bitterness. This cocktail is easy to make and can be customized to suit individual preferences. If you're looking for a refreshing and flavorful cocktail to enjoy, the Blueberry Smash is definitely worth a try.
25. Earl Grey Manhattan
The Earl Grey Manhattan is a unique twist on the classic whiskey cocktail. This cocktail features the Old Potrero 18th Century Style Whiskey from Anchor Distilling, which is made with 100% malted rye and aged in toasted oak casks.
The addition of Earl Grey tea-infused vermouth adds a subtle floral note to the drink, while the orange bitters provide a citrusy finish. The result is a well-balanced cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a cozy evening. If you're looking to try something new and exciting, the Earl Grey Manhattan is definitely worth a try!
26. Limoncello Whiskey Sour Cocktail
The Limoncello Whiskey Sour Cocktail is a refreshing twist on a traditional Whiskey Sour. This cocktail features the sweetness of Limoncello, the warmth of whiskey, and the fresh taste of lemon juice. The addition of club soda makes for a perfectly balanced drink that is sure to please on a warm spring day.
This cocktail is a great option for those who enjoy a sweeter drink but still want the complexity of a whiskey-based cocktail. If you're looking for a unique and refreshing cocktail to try, the Limoncello Whiskey Sour is definitely worth a taste.
