The best way to kick off any gathering? A well-crafted welcome cocktail. Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner, a summer garden party, or a full-scale celebration, the right drink sets the tone from the start. A great welcome cocktail should be easy to sip, elegant, and—most importantly—memorable.

Whisky is an ideal base for welcome drinks, adding depth without being too heavy. From light and zesty highballs to sparkling serves and modern twists on classics, here are some of the best whisky welcome cocktails to serve when greeting your guests.

A highball is always a smart move when welcoming guests—it’s crisp, refreshing, and effortlessly smooth. The Scotch and Rosemary Highball takes things up a notch with an aromatic rosemary twist, making it a sophisticated choice for any time of year. Perfect for festive gatherings when you want something lighter than a mulled drink, or as a refined start to a dinner party.

Hosting a brunch or daytime event? The Scottish Spring Matcha brings a fresh, earthy bitterness that pairs beautifully with whisky’s smooth character. It’s light, complex, and a great way to serve something unexpected. Think stylish spring luncheons or weekend gatherings where you want a cocktail that stands out.

Bubbles make everything feel a little more special, and the Rose Royale is no exception. With whisky and rosé wine, it’s a refined alternative to a traditional Champagne welcome drink. An ideal drink for romantic occasions like weddings, New Year’s Eve, or any moment that calls for a toast.

Some cocktails just work every time, and the Scotch Whisky Smash is one of them. Bright, citrusy, and incredibly easy to drink, this is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a big celebration, you can’t go wrong with this refreshing serve.

For a summer gathering, your welcome drink should be light, tropical, and effortlessly refreshing. The Coco Breeze is just that, combining coconut and whisky for a smooth, slightly sweet serve that instantly transports you to warm, sunny days. Perfect for garden parties, BBQs, or beachside get-togethers.

A classic whisky sour never fails, but the Blackberry Whisky Sour adds a bold, fruity twist. Rich and tangy with just the right amount of sweetness, this cocktail is a great way to introduce guests to whisky in a fresh, fun way. Serve it at elegant dinners or cocktail parties for a guaranteed hit.

Collins-style cocktails are a go-to for welcome drinks in summer—they’re light, refreshing, and easy to sip. The Elderflower Collins brings floral and citrusy notes into the mix, creating a drink that’s bright and smooth with a slightly spiced whisky twist.

A welcome drink should fit the mood, and when the temperature drops, a HotToddy is exactly what you need. This warming cocktail is a cosy, spiced classic that greets guests from the cold like a warm embrace. Perfect for winter nights or après-ski gatherings

Sometimes, the best welcome drink is one that guests can serve themselves. The Punch Fresco is a fresh, vibrant batch cocktail that keeps the party flowing with minimal effort. Whether it’s a summer celebration or a big holiday get-together, this is an easy way to serve up something special without playing bartender all night.

Looking for a drink that feels warm, smooth, and welcoming? The Valley of the Bees blends whisky with honey and citrus, striking the perfect balance between sweet and refreshing. Serve this at intimate gatherings or elegant events where you want to make a lasting first impression.

For a welcome drink that truly feels like a celebration, our Whisky French 75 is the way to go. This sparkling serve is bold, elegant, and effortlessly smooth—ideal for weddings, milestone birthdays, and any moment that calls for raising a glass.

A well-chosen welcome cocktail sets the scene for the night ahead, whether it’s a relaxed get-together or a grand occasion. And with these whisky-based serves, you can greet your guests with a drink that’s as impressive as the event itself.

Whilst you’re hosting, don’t miss our guide to the best dinner party cocktails to serve mid meal. As well as elegant drinks and the best cocktails to impress guests all year round.