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12 Best Whisky Cocktails for Father’s Day

Whisky and Father’s Day—it’s a classic combo. But this year, we’re flipping the script. Whether you’re celebrating a whisky-loving dad, a cocktail curious grandfather, or a father figure who deserves something special, there’s no reason to stick with the usual neat pour.

From bold and brooding sips to bright, brunch-worthy serves, these Father’s Day whisky cocktails bring a fresh twist to tradition. Think whisky with pistachio, whisky with raspberry, even whisky with coffee. So whether you’re hosting a BBQ or pulling together a Father’s Day brunch, there’s a cocktail for every occasion.

Here are 12 Father’s Day cocktails that put whisky front and centre—just not the way you’d expect. And whilst you’re here, don’t miss our guide to the best whisky gifts for Father’s Day.

The Godfather

Perfect for: Serving after dinner with a toast, or alongside a bottle of The Glenlivet that’ll outshine any pair of socks.

With a name like The Godfather, this one almost writes itself. It’s strong, understated and impossible not to respect—just like the father figures we’re raising a glass to. The Glenlivet 15 Year Old brings depth and smoothness, while amaretto adds a gentle almond sweetness that rounds everything out.

Maple Whisky Sour

Perfect for: Father’s Day brunch with a difference—especially if you’re serving up bacon, waffles or anything off the griddle.

This isn’t your usual sour. The Maple Whisky Sour takes The Glenlivet 12 Year Old and stirs in quality maple syrup and lemon juice for a rich, tangy cocktail that balances sharp citrus with warm, earthy sweetness. A smart nod to Dad’s favourite breakfast flavours.

Scotch Whisky Coffee

Scotch Whisky Coffee proves that caffeine and whisky are a match made for late mornings and long chats. Smooth single malt scotch pairs with hot black coffee, demerara sugar and thick double cream to create a warming, velvety drink that hits all the right notes.

Perfect for: A leisurely start to the day or post-lunch with dessert—ideal when you want a comforting pick-me-up.

Small Voice of Calm

The Small Voice of Calm lives up to its name—it’s subtle, light and quietly impressive. The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve is combined with chamomile tea, lemon juice and soda for a chilled, calming serve that’s made for busy Dads.

Perfect for: Sipping during a sunny afternoon BBQ, or as a pre-meal palate cleanser.

Weathered Axe

Brooding and bold, the Weathered Axe brings together The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve, orange bitters, lemon and ginger syrup. It’s a short serve with a lot going on—bitterness, brightness and a hint of spiced warmth.

Perfect for: Late evening, whisky in hand, firepit going. A contemplative kind of cocktail for the father figure who’s got a few stories.

Boulevardier

If you know a dad who loves a Negroni, the Boulevardier is a solid switch-up. It swaps gin for The Glenlivet 15 Year Old, adding warmth and richness to this punchy, bittersweet classic. With sweet vermouth and Campari in the mix, it’s smooth with just the right bite.

Perfect for: Serving with snacks before a celebratory dinner or to go alongside a cheese and charcuterie board.

Raspberry Cranachan

Inspired by the classic Scottish dessert, the Raspberry Cranachan is creamy, tart and textured in all the right ways. Sweetly smooth single malt pairs with fresh muddled raspberries, lemon juice and a touch of white balsamic for a silky shake with a touch of vinous acidity.

Perfect for: Raising a glass with pudding, or stealing the show as the dessert itself. Especially good for grandads with a sweet tooth.

Pistachio Paradise

This isn’t just for adventurous dads—it’s for anyone ready to discover how complex whisky can really get. The Pistachio Paradise blends The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve with creamy pistachio ice cream and lime juice. Garnished with honey and chopped nuts.

Perfect for: Wowing guests at a Father’s Day garden party or serving up a dessert-inspired cocktail.

Chocolate Orange Old Fashioned

Old Fashioned, yes. Old-school, not quite. The Chocolate Orange Old Fashioned uses chocolate liqueur and orange syrup for a rich and indulgent twist on a classic. Smooth, dark and slightly sweet—like a whisky-soaked chocolate orange slice.

Perfect for: An after-dinner sipper to go with dark chocolate or a cheeseboard. Sophisticated without being showy.

Marmalade Sour

Zingy, zesty and full of character, the Marmalade Sour puts a citrusy spin on tradition. The Glenlivet scotch whisky, lemon juice and marmalade give this drink a tangy bite with a jammy sweetness.

Perfect for: Brightening up a brunch table or kicking off the day’s celebrations with something that packs a punch.

The Glenlivet Royale

The Glenlivet Royale is what you pour when the day calls for a little extra sparkle. Featuring The Glenlivet 12 Year Old, lemon juice and champagne, it’s fizzy, fresh and perfect for raising a glass.

Perfect for: A Father’s Day toast with style—especially if you’re celebrating multiple generations at once.

On the Rocks

Last but not least, On the Rocks strips it all back. No syrups, no garnishes—just The Glenlivet 12 Year Old over ice. It’s a great way to enjoy our whisky’s signature smoothness, whether your dad’s a purist or a first-timer.

Perfect for: Keeping it classic; pour Dad a glass when gifting a bottle of The Glenlivet.

This Father’s Day, forget the clichés. Whether you’re hosting a lunch or just enjoying some quality time, these cocktails prove whisky doesn’t have to be serious to be special.

Explore our full collection of whisky cocktails to find more drinks worth sharing. As well as our top brunch and breakfast cocktails and the best whiskies to gift from The Glenlivet range.