If you like your cocktails with a little bite, a bitter whisky drink needs to be on your radar. Bold, complex, and often surprisingly refreshing—bitter cocktails are packed with flavour. Whether it’s the sharpness of citrus, the richness of coffee, or the dry bite of grapefruit, bitterness adds depth to a drink, balancing out sweetness and enhancing whisky’s natural character.

Whisky itself carries a hint of bitterness, from the tannins in oak casks to the spice of a well-aged dram. And when paired with other bitter ingredients, you get a punchy, sophisticated serve worthy of any aperitif or late-night sip. 

From citrus sours to deep, spirit-forward classics, these bitter whisky cocktails are a must-try.

If you like your bitterness with a citrusy kick, the Paper Plane is your next order. This balanced mix of whisky, Aperol, and herbal liqueur delivers a bright yet complex flavour, with just the right amount of tartness.

The Glenlivet’s smooth notes round out the sharper elements, whilst fresh lemon adds a light citrus balance. Its crisp, bittersweet profile makes it an ideal pre-dinner cocktail or a refreshing pick for warm evenings.

A whisky lover’s answer to the Negroni, the Boulevardier is a bold yet balanced mix of whisky, sweet vermouth, and a bitter liqueur. The Glenlivet 15 Year Old’s sweet almond character softens the bitter edge, while the vermouth adds depth and warmth.

Perfect for slow sipping, this cocktail is ideal for anyone who enjoys a complex drink with a velvety finish. Serve it before dinner for a refined aperitif or as a late-night classic when the mood calls for something bold.

For those who enjoy a bold, roasted bitterness, the Scotch Whisky Coffee delivers. Fresh espresso takes centre stage, bringing an intense depth of flavour, while The Glenlivet’s rich, full-bodied notes add warmth and smoothness.

Drink it straight for an unapologetically strong kick or sweeten it to taste. Either way, it’s the perfect after-dinner drink—whether you’re rounding off a meal or need an extra boost to keep the night going.

Earthy, slightly bitter, and refreshingly different, the Scottish Spring Matcha brings a unique twist to whisky cocktails. The bitterness of matcha blends with the creamy, zesty notes of The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve, while lime and coconut add a sweet, citrus finish.

It’s an elegant, unexpected serve that works well for daytime sipping whether as a casual cocktail among friends, or a signature drink at your next garden party. If you’re a matcha fan, this one’s a must.

A classic from New Orleans, the Vieux Carré is a beautifully complex mix of whisky, cognac, sweet vermouth, herbal liqueur, and bitters. It’s rich and layered, with a hint of spice, a touch of sweetness, and a pleasantly bitter edge.

The Glenlivet’s smooth profile ties it all together, creating a deep, warming cocktail that’s perfect for slow sipping. If you enjoy a Manhattan but want something a little more unexpected, this one’s worth a pour.

Bitter orange and whisky are a winning combination, and the Marmalade Sour proves it. This cocktail takes a classic whisky sour and adds a twist of citrusy bitterness from orange marmalade, creating a drink that’s both sharp and smooth.

The Glenlivet’s fruity notes enhance the natural sweetness of the marmalade, while the citrus brings a bright, refreshing contrast. It’s an easy-going cocktail that works well for brunch, afternoon drinks, or anytime you want something bittersweet.

The Grapefruit Paloma swaps out the usual tequila for whisky, giving this bittersweet classic a new depth. The tartness of grapefruit juice meets smooth single malt scotch, while a squeeze of lime keeps things light and refreshing.

This is the kind of drink that’s made for warm days and easy sipping. If you enjoy whisky highballs but want something with a little more bite, this is the perfect choice.

Bitter whisky cocktails bring out the best of both worlds—the depth of whisky and the bold complexity of bitter ingredients. Whether you prefer the strong, citrusy notes of a Paper Plane or the rich, aromatic layers of a Vieux Carré, there’s something in this line-up for every palate.

So, if you usually lean towards sweeter cocktails, it might be time to embrace the bitter side of whisky—you just might find your new favourite serve.

Looking for more? Don’t miss our collection of whisky drinks including short and strong serves and our best sour cocktails.