
Whisky cocktails are all about balance, and garnishes play a crucial role in elevating the drink’s presentation, aroma and flavour. From the timeless orange twist on an Old Fashioned to sprigs of fresh herbs in a refreshing highball, the right garnish transforms a great cocktail into an even greater one.
Whether you’re rimming a glass, adding a pop of colour, or experimenting with savoury elements, there’s a garnish for every style of whisky drink.
Here’s a guide to some of the best garnishes to try, and how to make them your own.
Orange twist
A true classic. The orange twist is the hallmark of whisky cocktail garnishes, most recognised in an Old Fashioned and other originals including The Godfather. The oil released from the peel adds sweet, rich, acidic notes that bring out the depth of whisky. And its spiral presentation adds timeless elegance to the glass.
For the perfect twist, use a vegetable peeler to remove a long strip of peel, avoiding too much pith. Gently twist it over the glass to release its oils before placing it on the rim or in the drink.
You can also switch things up by using orange zest for a similar effect in cocktails like the Orange Marmalade Sour.
Citrus wheels and wedges
Lemon, lime, grapefruit and orange all work in wedge or wheel form, adding both visual appeal and a zesty kick. Either in the glass or placed on the rim, they go wonderfully with both hot and cold whisky cocktails.
A lime wedge can brighten up a refreshing Scotch and Soda whilst a slice of fresh lemon adds extra citrus comfort to a spicy, Ginger Hot Toddy. You can also pair flavours by adding a grapefruit wheel to a classic Grapefruit Paloma.
For something different, try dehydrated citrus slices—they last longer and add a slightly smoky complexity to drinks.
Cocktail cherry
A retro favourite, cocktail cherries add sweetness and a touch of nostalgia to whisky drinks. Look for premium maraschino cherries, which pair beautifully with rich, spirit-forward classics like the Maraschino Cherry Manhattan.
Make your garnish stand out by soaking cherries in whisky and simple syrup for an easy homemade upgrade.
Cocktail cherry
A retro favourite, cocktail cherries add sweetness and a touch of nostalgia to whisky drinks. Look for premium maraschino cherries, which pair beautifully with rich, spirit-forward classics like the Maraschino Cherry Manhattan.
Make your garnish stand out by soaking cherries in whisky and simple syrup for an easy homemade upgrade.
Fresh berries
Berries bring a burst of colour and fruity sweetness to whisky cocktails and are often muddled in with the drink for a fresh flavour.
Almost any berry will work. Think blackberries, blueberries, strawberries and raspberries. As well as cranberries for a festive serve. Our favourite is a bunch of Scottish raspberries in our Raspberry Cranachan cocktail.
Bonus points if you use seasonal or local berries for a fresh-from-the-garden touch.
Herbs
Herbs aren’t just for food—they add an aromatic dimension to cocktails too. Mint is a natural choice, especially in classics like the Whisky Mint Julep. But savoury herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage are equally at home in drinks like our Honey Sage Old Fashioned or Brown Sugar Rosemary Old Fashioned.
Grow your own herbs at home for a sustainable option, and gently slap the sprigs between your palms before garnishing to release their oils.
Edible flowers
Edible flowers add elegance and fragrance to any drink – just take a look at The Rose Royale or the Scottish Spring Matcha.
Choose seasonal blooms like pansies, marigolds, or rose petals for a garnish that makes the cocktail’s colours pop. You could even freeze the flowers in with the ice to make a long-lasting garnish.
Chocolate
Add bittersweet richness with dark chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder. This garnish is perfect for dessert-inspired drinks like the Whisky Hot Chocolate.
For a creative touch, shave chocolate over the drink or rim the glass with cocoa powder. A great garnish to use for a cocktail and dessert pairing.
Coffee beans
Whole coffee beans offer an earthy aroma that enhances spiced or creamy whisky cocktails. Drop a few beans into the Spiced Spey Coffee for a garnish that’s as bold as the drink itself.
For something different, try chocolate-coated beans for an added layer of flavour
Cinnamon
A cinnamon stick isn’t just a garnish—it doubles as a stirrer, infusing your drink with warm, spicy notes. It’s a perfect addition to winter warmers like a classic Hot Toddy.
Grated cinnamon can also be sprinkled over drinks for a subtler touch. Whilst toasting the stick lightly before garnishing will release even more aroma.
Apple slices
Crisp apple slices make a fresh and versatile garnish for cocktails like the Apple Cinnamon Spritz. Red, green, or even pink-hued apples can add a pop of colour and a hint of sweetness.
Dip the slices in lemon juice to prevent browning, or sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for a spiced finish.
Tropical fruits
Bring a sunny vibe to your drinks with tropical garnishes like pineapple wedges or watermelon slices. These pair beautifully with vibrant, fruity cocktails like the Pineapple Lime Smash or the Punch Fresco.
For a creative twist, grill pineapple slices lightly before garnishing to add smoky, caramelised notes.
Get creative with garnishes
The best garnish for whisky drinks is one that matches your vibe. Try cucumber strips for a fresh twist in a Scotch Mule, popcorn for a playful edge in our whisky popcorn cocktail, or even chilli for a spicy kick in a Whisky Margarita.
Whether you stick to classics or experiment with the unexpected, garnishes let you make every drink your own.
Discover more recipes to have fun garnishing in our collection of whisky cocktails.