Raise a glass to 2021 with our favourite whisky cocktail recipes

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH JOHNNIE WALKER

From fruity cranberry martinis to comforting creamy drinks with seasonal flavours, there’s a cocktail to suit every palate. But, if you’re anything like us however, you’re a classicist at heart; and no libation is quite as elegant, timeless or memorable as whisky.

This year, Johnnie Walker is celebrating 200 years, and what better way to mark the milestone than with a whisky cocktail. From tall drinks to short, and even a hot serve for winter, here are three delicious Johnnie Walker serves to enjoy this festive season. 

The Short
Whisky Old Fashioned 

Savour the unmistakable taste of Johnnie Walker Black Label in this classic cocktail, with its subtle warming smoke and hints of sweet vanilla perfect for this simple yet sophisticated serve. It may be called an Old Fashioned, but there’s certainly nothing outdated about this timeless classic.

Ingredients:
60 ml Johnnie Walker Black Label
10 ml simple syrup (see method)
Two dashes aromatic bitters
Orange peel

Method:
Combine all the ingredients in an ice-filled mixing glass and stir well. If you don't have bottled simple syrup, you can make it yourself by combining equal quantities of sugar and water in a pan and heating until the sugar dissolves.
Take a fresh tumbler and, over a large ice cube, pour your combined mixture into the glass. 
Twist a piece of orange zest over the glass to release the aromatic oils.
Using a lit match, gently heat the orange peel to give it a smoky quality, then add it to your glass. You can also garnish with rosemary, should you prefer.

The tall
Johnnie & Ginger

A classic combination guaranteed to delight even those who are new to whisky, the Johnnie & Ginger is the perfect serve for the winter months. Showcasing the spicier notes of Johnnie Walker Black Label, this tall serve combines the gentle heat of ginger with star anise to complement the whisky. It’s simple but, more often than not, the best pairings are.

Ingredients:
50ml Johnnie Walker Black Label 
150ml ginger ale 
Ginger slice & star anise to garnish 

Method:
Fill a tall highball glass with ice
Add your Johnnie Walker Black Label then top up with ginger ale
Stir and finish with a thin ginger slice and star anise for a sophisticated, spicy serve

The warm
Hot Toddy 

The Hot Toddy is the ideal festive tipple thanks to its cosy, comforting warmth. For an extra special touch, use the limited edition John Walker & Sons Celebratory Blend – released this year to celebrate 200 years. With notes of sweet dried raisins, subtle spice and marzipan, the whisky is the perfect edition to this warming serve, ideal to sip as you shield from the cold. 

Ingredients:
35ml John Walker & Sons Celebratory Blend 
10ml lemon juice 
20ml honey 
100ml hot water
A sprig of rosemary or a cinnamon stick 

Method
Add all the ingredients in a brandy glass.
Using a spoon, stir the ingredients gently until combined. 
Add a sprig of toasted rosemary or, for a festive twist, try a stick of cinnamon.

For more recipe inspiration and to learn more about Johnnie Walker, visit Johnniewalker.com

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