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 easy whisky cocktails you can master in minutes, from simple two-ingredient serves to classic shaken cocktails for when you’re ready to take the next step.

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 such an easy choice is how quickly it comes together. With just whisky, ginger beer and fresh lime, you can build it straight in the glass—no cocktail shaker required. It’s ideal when you want something that feels special with minimal 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. Fresh mint and lemon bring bright, zesty flavours that balance the whisky’s natural sweetness, creating an easy-drinking cocktail for warmer days. If you’re looking for something even more tropical, our Coco Lime Smash offers a refreshing twist with creamy coconut and zesty lime.

Despite its vibrant flavours, the Whisky Smash is surprisingly simple to make. Just muddle the mint and lemon, add whisky and ice, then stir everything together for a quick cocktail that’s full of freshness.

Every whisky lover should know how to make an Old Fashioned. This timeless cocktail combines whisky, sugar and bitters to create a spirit-forward drink that lets the character of the whisky shine. The Glenlivet 12 Year Old adds smooth notes of fruit and vanilla, making it an approachable take on the classic.

Better still, it’s made directly in the glass with no shaker required. Once you’ve mastered the original, try experimenting with twists such as our Elderflower Peach Old Fashioned or Chocolate Orange Old Fashioned. Discover more Old Fashioned variations to try 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. This cocktail does require a cocktail shaker, making it a great next step once you’ve mastered some of the simpler stirred and built drinks.

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.

With only two ingredients, The Godfather one of the easiest whisky cocktails to make at home. Simply stir whisky and amaretto over ice—no cocktail shaker needed—for a rich, nutty drink that’s ideal for beginners.

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.

The Golden Highball proves that simple cocktails can still be full of flavour. Combining The Glenlivet 12 Year Old with orange liqueur, a touch of honey and soda water, it delivers delicate notes of citrus and honey in a light, refreshing serve.

Built directly in the glass and topped with soda, it’s an effortless cocktail that’s ideal for summer gatherings, pre-dinner drinks or anyone looking for an easy whisky highball.

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 also makes an excellent starting point for anyone new to whisky cocktails thanks to its simplicity and refreshing character.

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.

Making cocktails with The Glenlivet

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.

New to making cocktails? Start with built drinks like the Scotch & Soda, Godfather or Golden Highball, which require little more than a glass and spoon. Once you’re comfortable, move on to shaken classics such as the Maple Whisky Sour and Paper Plane to expand your home bartending skills.

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.