Whisky is a spirit that’s known for its depth of flavour and versatility, making it the perfect base for a range of easy cocktails. 

Whether you’re new to whisky or a seasoned connoisseur, these cocktails are simple to whip up at home and highlight whisky’s best qualities, from its smoothness to its spice. 

Here’s the ultimate list of whisky cocktails that you can easily master and make in minutes.

For fans of a Moscow Mule, the Scotch Whisky Mule is a must-try. It has the same refreshing kick from ginger beer but swaps out vodka for the complex, rich flavours of The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve whisky. The lime adds just the right amount of citrus zing, balancing the spicy ginger with a crisp, clean finish.

What makes this cocktail an easy choice is how quickly it comes together. You don’t need a long list of ingredients or any fancy techniques—just whisky, ginger beer and lime. It’s ideal for those moments when you want something that feels special but doesn’t require much effort.

A classic with a twist, the Boulevardier brings together whisky, Campari and sweet vermouth for a slightly bitter, beautifully balanced drink. If you like a Negroni, this is its whisky-based cousin, offering a rich depth from the whisky while retaining the bittersweet notes of the other ingredients.

This cocktail is as easy to make as it is elegant. Simply stir everything with ice and strain into a glass—it’s as simple as that. The Boulevardier’s complex flavour profile makes it a great cocktail for those looking to explore more refined whisky options without a complicated process.

If you’re after something refreshing with a hint of citrus, the Scotch Whisky Smash is the perfect pick. This cocktail combines whisky with lemon and mint, offering a light, zesty flavour that’s balanced by the whisky’s natural sweetness. It’s a great choice for those warmer days when you need something bright and cooling.

Despite its bold flavours, this cocktail is surprisingly easy to make. Just muddle the mint and lemon, add whisky and ice, and you’re good to go. It’s a quick and refreshing way to enjoy whisky this summer.

The Honey Old Fashioned gives a touch of natural sweetness to the classic old Fashioned cocktail. It’s a smooth, subtle twist on the traditional whisky, sugar and bitters combination, and the honey adds a layer of warmth that pairs beautifully with The Glenlivet’s whisky.

It’s a seriously easy way to put your own stamp on a timeless cocktail. You can make it in the glass—just stir the honey, whisky and bitters with ice, and garnish with a twist of orange. The perfect cocktail to enjoy after dinner or during a quiet evening at home.

For those who enjoy a tangy, slightly bitter cocktail, the Paper Plane is a fantastic choice. This cocktail combines whisky with Aperol, Amaro Nonino and lemon juice, creating a vibrant, well-rounded drink with just the right amount of zing.

It’s easy to make and even easier to drink—simply shake all the ingredients together and strain into a glass. The balance of citrus and bitters makes it both refreshing and complex, perfect for serving to a crowd.

A smooth, sweet twist on the classic, the Maple Whisky Sour uses maple syrup in place of simple syrup, giving the drink a rich, autumnal flavour. The tartness of the lemon and the sweetness of the maple complement the whisky perfectly, creating a cocktail that’s both balanced and indulgent.

This cocktail is perfect for those who love a sour drink but want to experiment with different flavours. And since it’s shaken and strained, it’s just as easy to make as the original Whisky Sour—ideal for impressing friends without spending too much time behind the bar.

For something simple yet bold, try the Godfather. This cocktail pairs whisky with amaretto, resulting in a rich, nutty drink with a smooth finish. It’s a two-ingredient cocktail that’s as easy as it gets—just stir and sip.

The Godfather is perfect for those who want a quick and easy whisky cocktail with deep, complex flavours. Its minimal ingredients make it the ultimate no-fuss option, but the amaretto’s sweet, almond-like notes give it a unique twist.

Try the Scotch & Rosemary Highball this season. This simple cocktail combines whisky, soda and fresh rosemary, offering a clean, crisp flavour with an aromatic finish. It’s perfect for when you want something light, herbal and refreshing.

Making this cocktail is a breeze. Just pour whisky and soda over ice and garnish with a sprig of rosemary. It’s ideal for those moments when you want to add something special to the usual cocktail hour.

One of the easiest whisky cocktails to make, the Scotch & Soda is a timeless classic. It’s as simple as it sounds—just whisky and soda water—but the key lies in choosing a high-quality whisky to let the flavours really shine through. We use The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve for long, creamy notes of citrus fruit and toffee apples. 

This cocktail is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re relaxing at home or serving drinks at a gathering. It’s light, refreshing, and endlessly customisable—add a lemon twist or a dash of bitters if you’re feeling adventurous.

For a cosy winter treat, the Whisky Hot Chocolate is a must-try. This cocktail combines the warmth of whisky with rich, creamy hot chocolate, creating a decadent drink that’s perfect for chilly nights. The sweetness of the chocolate complements the whisky’s spiced depth, making it a comforting yet sophisticated serve.

It’s easy to prepare—just mix whisky into your favourite hot chocolate recipe and top with whipped cream or marshmallows. It’s the ultimate indulgence when you need a little warmth and comfort.

Whether you’re looking for something quick and refreshing, or a cocktail that’s a bit more luxurious, these easy whisky cocktails offer a wide range of flavours and experiences. With minimal ingredients and simple techniques, you’ll be able to master these drinks in no time. So grab your favourite bottle of The Glenlivet and get mixing!

Looking for more? There’s plenty of other whisky cocktail recipes to make with The Glenlivet including dinner party cocktails, fruity drinks and fun cocktails to make with friends.