Ask the Experts: What Are the Best Whisky Cocktail Recipes for Beginners?

09/06/2023

Ask the Experts: What Are the Best Whisky Cocktail Recipes for Beginners?

Curious about whisky? Begin your journey with these satisfying drinks that inspire folks to live boldly, drink well, and taste the moment.

When it comes to whisky drinks, you have lots of choices. Whisky is beloved because it’s one of the more versatile liquors: sweet, salty, savory, bitter, you name it, there’s a whisky that enhances each of those flavors.

Cocktails are a great way for newcomers to dip a toe into the whisky world. A well-balanced drink can blend complex flavors into a versatile and satisfying sipping experience.

So, if you’re new to whisky and wondering how to get started, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s a whisky beginner guide to help you fall in love with your new favorite cocktail.

Two Simple Classics

Easy to serve and ideal for turning whisky skeptics into whisky converts—try these classics that we’ve upgraded with a Pendleton^® Whisky twist.

Rodeo Mary

Rodeo Mary Don’t think a Bloody Mary with whisky is a thing? We didn’t either, until we invented it!

2 oz Pendleton^® Whisky Original
Your favorite Bloody Mary mix
Build ingredients directly into a highball glass with ice and stir briefly. Garnish with olives or a lime wedge.

Pendleton Shandy

Pendleton Shandy This drink blends in some sweetness to mellow out the more powerful whisky flavor, which makes this a suitable session sipper.

2 oz Pendleton^® Whisky Original
1 oz Orange Juice
2 oz Lemonade
Your favorite beer of choice (pale ale recommended)
1 Orange Slice
Pour the first four ingredients into a pint glass or pilsner glass with ice & give a stir, then garnish with fruit.

Two That'll Impress Your Friends

When it’s time to spread your wings and leave the cozy whisky beginner’s nest, these are the perfect drinks to start off on your whisky connoisseur journey. No, these aren’t exactly beginner recipes, but they’re not difficult or require a super expensive bar setup—you can improvise with the bar tools you already own.

1910 Old Fashioned

1910 Old Fashioned Putting together one of these is a smooth operation that shows off your appreciation of a fine drink, or that you’ve started bartender school—either way, your friends will be impressed with your whisky mixology!

2 oz Pendleton^® Whisky 1910 Rye
1 Dash of Bitters
1 Sugar Cube
1 Splash Water or Club Soda
1 Cherry
1 Orange Twist
Combine the first three ingredients in a mixing glass, then strain over ice into a rocks glass; add a splash of water or club soda and garnish with fruit.

Midnight Manhattan

Midnight Manhattan Knowing how to make a Manhattan on the rocks is pretty fancy. Take it to the next level with this elegant cocktail—it’s a surefire way to let a special someone know you really care.

1.5 oz Pendleton^® Whisky Midnight or Pendleton^® Whisky 1910 Rye
0.75 oz Sweet Vermouth
3 dashes Angostura Bitters
1 Cherry
Combine the first three ingredients with ice & stir well, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass or martini glass; garnish with fruit.

The One and Only

The simplest way to savor Pendleton^® Whisky Original might be the best—all on its own. Solo is a great way to appreciate the rich, complex flavor: notes of vanilla and butterscotch, with a smooth fruit and honey finish.

Pendleton^® Shot

1.5 oz Pendleton^® Whisky Original
Pour into a shot glass and enjoy at your own pace; pair with your favorite beer to savor an old school classic vibe.

This Is the Beginning of Something Beautiful

These recipes are only the beginning. If you’re inspired to explore further, take a look at our Cocktails page to find more ideas for whisky classics with our unique Western spin. No matter which cocktail recipe becomes your new favorite, the right way to do whisky is with Pendleton^® Whisky. If you can’t make it out to Oregon (we’d love to see you at the Pendleton Round-Up), shop our online store to get a taste of True Western Tradition delivered to your door. We’ve got some great barware, accessories, and apparel that are perfect for whisky connoisseurs.

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