Creative Whiskey Cocktails for Summer

How to make creative whiskey cocktails for summer?

1. Mango basil smash
2. Calamansi whiskey sour
3. Buko Pandan old fashioned
4. Spicy watermelon cooler
5. Guava & mint julep

Overview

• The article introduces whiskey as a versatile spirit for summer drinks, challenging the conventional association of whiskey with cooler weather.
• It presents five creative cocktail recipes that infuse Filipino flavors and ingredients, showcasing whiskey's adaptability and potential for refreshing summer beverages.
• Each recipe is accompanied by step-by-step instructions and recommendations for the best whiskey pairings, encouraging readers to explore new flavor combinations and enjoy whiskey in innovative ways during the hot summer months.

Summer is synonymous with sunshine, poolside lounging, and refreshing drinks. You usually hear the usual margarita mix or beer by the pool, but what about whisky? This spirit is not just for nightcaps or cooler weather. With a few creative twists, you can transform whiskey into the star of your summer.

In this article, we will explore some creative whiskey cocktails for summer in the Philippines that incorporate fruits and herbs and the recommended whiskeys to create unique and delicious drinks that keep you cool.

Mango Basil Smash

What’s summer in the Philippines without mango? We love it in almost every meal whether it’s enjoyed as dessert or as a cool refreshing shake. If we can already have it as a shake, why not add a fun version? Let’s take it to the next level by making a Mango Basil Smash.

This cocktail is like sunshine in a glass, bursting with the sweetness of ripe mangoes and the zesty kick of fresh basil. It’s very easy to make, perfect for a relaxing evening or a lively gathering with friends.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Maker's Mark 46 Bourbon
• 1 oz Fresh Lime Juice
• 1/2 oz Mango Syrup (local brands readily available)
• 5-6 Fresh Basil Leaves
• Soda Water (to top)

Steps:

Combine whiskey, lime juice, mango syrup, and basil leaves in a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into a glass filled with fresh ice. Top with soda water and garnish with fresh leaves of basil and a mango slice.

Pro tip:

Aside from the one mentioned in the recipe, we also recommend pairing your mango basil smash with a smooth and slightly sweet whiskey like Glenfiddich 12-Year-Old Whisky. Think of orchard fruit and honey to complement the juicy mango and elevate the experience.

Calamansi Whiskey Sour

To all whiskey sour lovers, this is a citrusy and pinoy twist you need to try. The cocktail combines the smoky depth of whiskey with the bright tangy flavor of calamansi.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Bulleit Bourbon Whiskey
• 3/4 oz Fresh Calamansi Juice
• 1/2 oz Honey Syrup
• 1 Egg White (optional for a richer texture)
• Angostura Bitters (for garnish)

Steps:

Combine whiskey, calamansi juice, honey syrup, and egg white (if using) in a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds and strain into a chilled coupe glass. Add a dash of Angostura bitter for a touch of complexity.

For the whiskey, a smooth bourbon like Bulleit Bourbon Whiskey (mentioned above) or a rye like the Bulliet Rye would be perfect. These types of whiskey will complement the sweetness of the calamansi juice and honey, without overpowering the drink.

Buko Pandan Old Fashioned

Buko Panda is a Filipino dessert classic, but did anyone tell you that you can enjoy its flavors in a cocktail as well? This drink will infuse tropical flavors of coconut and pandan.

You will be able to taste the rich caramel notes of aged whiskey mingling with the creamy sweetness of coconut and pandan syrup.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey
• 1/2 oz Pandan Syrup (available online or in specialty stores)
• 2 Dashes of Coconut Water
• 1 Orange Peel (for garnish)
• Toasted Coconut Flakes (for garnish)

Steps:

Combine whiskey, pandan syrup, and coconut water in a mixing glass with ice. Stir gently for 30 seconds. Strain into a rock glass filled with fresh ice. Express the orange peel oil over the drink and discard. Garnish with a twist of orange peel and toasted coconut flakes.

For the perfect whiskey, we recommend a smooth and slightly sweet bourbon like Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey mentioned above. You can also try other sweeter options like Maker’s Mark Kentucky or Jim Beam White Bourbon to complement the pandan syrup, while the oak notes will add a touch of complexity.

Spicy Watermelon Cooler

To those who enjoy that spicy kick, you can try out this spicy watermelon cooler. It’s the perfect way to beat the Philippine heat and tantalize your taste buds. So, grab your shaker and get ready to whip up this fun and fiery drink.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Michter's Kentucky Straight Rye American Whiskey
• 1/2 oz Fresh Watermelon Juice
• 1/4 oz Fresh Lime Juice
• 1/4 oz Ginger Syrup
• Candied jalapeno
• Soda Water (to top)

Steps:

Mix fresh watermelon chunks with chili flakes in a shaker. Add whiskey, lime juice, ginger syrup, and ice. Shake vigorously and strain into a glass filled with fresh ice. Top with soda water and garnish with a lime wedge and a sprinkle of chili flakes.

The flavors of Michter's Kentucky Straight Rye American Whiskey will complement the sweetness of the watermelon and the spiciness of the candied jalapeno.

Pro Tip:

If you want that extra cooling effect in your mouth, mix a few mint leaves in the bottom of your glass before adding the cooler for an extra refreshing touch.

Guava & Mint Julep

Imagine this, you’re relaxing in a hammock under a swaying palm tree, a gentle breeze carrying a sweet musky scent. That’s the vibe this drink creates. This julep bursting with the sweet, tangy flavors of guava, the refreshing coolness of mint, and a touch of boozy goodness.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Jim Beam 8-Year-Old Black Double-Aged Kentucky Straight
• 1/2 oz Guava Syrup
• 4 Mint Leaves
• Soda Water (to top)

Steps:

Mix mint leaves in a julep cup. Add whiskey and guava syrup. Fill the cup with crushed ice and stir gently. Top with soda water and garnish with a fresh mint sprig and a guava slice.

Since this recipe is already flavorful, you don't need a top-shelf whiskey. Opt for a smooth bourbon or rye that won't overpower the guava and mint. Think Jim Beam 8-Year-Old Black Double-Aged Kentucky Straight, Wild Turkey "Rare Breed" Bourbon Whiskey, and Bulliet Rye.

Pro Tip:

If you can’t find guava syrup, you can mix some fresh guava slices with a little bit of sugar and water to create your homemade syrup.

Key Takeaway

Looking for the perfect whiskey to whip up these masterpieces? We just gave you some of our most creative whiskey cocktails for the summer. To create these drinks, here at Flasked we have all the wines and spirits you’ll need.

Shop our diverse collections today and elevate your next summer hang out!