According to the website for International Whisk(e)y Day, "International Whisk(e)y Day is a celebration of whiskey and is maintained purely by the passion of whiskey aficionados from around the world." It doesn't receive any monetary support. March 27 has been designated International Whisk(e)y Day annually since 2008. In this case, the name is used within brackets to show that not just Irish and American whiskeys but also Scotch, Canadian, and Japanese whiskies (no e) are supported (with an e). Whiskey is celebrated on this day while also raising money for Parkinson's disease study and treatment research. While this day has a deeper cause, one can also celebrate it by making exciting drinks around whisk(e)y. Justin Dias, Head Mixologist at RCB Bar & Café, shares recipes for three such cocktails.
Why he chose these three recipes, answering it, he says, "These cocktails showcase unique twists on some classic drinks - by incorporating different ingredients or preparation techniques for an elevated drinking experience. Take the Lucciano Old Fashioned, for instance, where we have substituted sugar with hazelnut syrup for an added dimension of flavour. Or the Dash of RCB Whiskey Sour, a quick, fuss-free way to whip up a crowd-favourite cocktail anytime, anywhere."
Calling whiskey an incredibly versatile spirit, Justin shares, "It that can be enjoyed neat or blended into delicious cocktails. It's great to see several homegrown whisky brands, such as Amrut, Rampur, and Paul John, gain popularity across the country, as they offer distinct tastes, textures, and flavour profiles that cater to the Indian palate." Further praising this spirit, Dias elaborates, "We are making whisky fun by experimenting with diverse ingredients like pink grapefruit, blood orange, basil, rosemary, and hazelnut. The spirit's versatility allows us to create interesting artisanal cocktails that appeal to a broader audience, including those who are not typically drawn to whisky."
I am sharing three interesting recipes, and I hope you will like them and try them on March 27, International Whisk( e) y Day.
Lucciano Old Fashioned
A refreshing tweak on the classic Old Fashioned made with a dash of hazelnut syrup, orange bitters, and premium Copper Dog whisky. We recommend serving it chilled over a large ice cube to enhance its flavours and aroma.
Ingredients:
- Copper Dog Whiskey - 60ml
- Hazelnut syrup - Just a dash
- Orange Bitters - 5 dashes
Method:
A typical Old Fashioned is made with a sugar cube and a dash of whiskey. Our take on the Lucciano Old Fashioned uses hazelnut instead of sugar. Add the hazelnut syrup and bitters into a mixing glass and stir till well combined. Fill the mixing tumbler with ice and add the bourbon, stirring till chilled. Strain this into a glass over one large ice cube.
Bloody Whisky
Bloody Whisky not only looks stunning but also packs a flavourful punch! This cocktail combines citrus with robust notes of whisky, creating a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavours.
Bloody whisky, Image By: RCB Bar & Café
Ingredients:
- Any Whiskey - 50ml
- Blood Orange (fresh or cordial) - 30ml
- Sweet and Sour Mix - 10ml
- Egg white (optional) - ½ fresh egg white
Method:
- Add the whiskey, blood orange, and sweet and sour mix into a mixing glass. Add ice and shake hard till chilled. Strain the drink out into a glass filled with ice.
Whiskey Sour
Ingredients: (Makes two glasses)
- Whiskey - 45 ml
- Dash of RCB Whiskey Sour Mix - 1 bottle
- Garnish - Orange Slice
Method:
Add ice to two glasses. Add the whiskey and combine it with the Whiskey Sour mix. Garnish with a fresh orange slice.
Mixologist Justin's expert tips on whiskey
- To enjoy whisky and making cocktails, peanut butter is a great way to enhance and level up a whisky!
- For instance, add some whisky to a decanter with 4-5 scoops of peanut butter. Let it sit for five days, and then strain it out.
- You can even incorporate walnuts, hazelnuts, or dried fruits into it – experiment to find out what works for you!
- Enjoy the whisky neat or with some ice.