3 Amazing co*cktail Recipes For Scotch Beginners (2024)

Today is a day unlike any other. It’s a day that we hold dear in our hearts, because we get to celebrate one of our all-time favorite beverages—er, boozes. Yes, it’s National Scotch Day. For those who are beginning to dip their feet in the world of scotch but don’t know where to start—we’ve got you covered. Here's a quick rundown of what you need to know about this essential spirit.

Scotch has a distinct flavor because it’s made with barley, water, yeast, and in some cases other grains. It hails from Scotland and is typically aged in wooden barrels for at least three years.

The term “scotch whisky,” which is of murky origin,is believed to ultimately be derived from a Latin term, aqua vitae, which quite literally translates to “water of life.” If you haven’t cultivated a taste for this “water of life” yet there are plenty of interesting recipes out there to ease you into this age-old drink. Here are three amazing recipes to get you started.

(And, while you're at it, fill out your household with the essential items for building a perfect home bar.)

Mountaintop Toddy

• 1 oz Macallan Double Cask 12 Years Old
• 2 oz Local apple cider
• 1/4 oz Maple syrup
• 1/4 oz Lemon juice
• dash of allspice
• apple wheel for garnish

How to Make It:

Pour all ingredients—except hot water and apple slices—into a mug. Top with hot water and stir. Garnish with apple slices.

Lemon Tell You Somethin’ Honey

The Auchentoshan American Oak single malt scotch whisky is incredibly versatile, which is why it works so well in this co*cktail. It boasts sweet aromas of coconut and vanilla, and has a smooth taste that will linger long after your last sip. In this recipe, courtesy of Robin Nance, a brand ambassador at Auchentoshan, the scotch whisky mixes perfectly with the lemon and honey to create a refreshing co*cktail that's sure to please.

What You'll Need:

• 1 1/2 oz Auchentoshan American Oak single malt scotch whisky
• 1/2 oz honey syrup
• 1 part lemon juice
• 3 parts pilsner

How to Make It:

Bring equal parts of honey and water in a small saucepan to a boil then simmer for 5 minutes to create the honey syrup. Cool before serving. Fill highball glass with ice. Add Auchentoshan American Oak single malt scotch whisky, honey syrup, lemon juice, and pilsner. Stir ingredients and garnish with a lemon peel.

(Not into scotch? Tequila has your back with this ultimate margarita instead.)

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J&B; Ginger Ale Twist

The J&B; Rare Scotch Whisky is a light-colored and light-bodied expression perfect for mixing in summer co*cktails. It’s smooth, fresh, and well-balanced. In this signature recipe from Justerini & Brooks, their spirit combines nicely with the heat of the ginger ale to create a concoction worth savoring.

What You'll Need:

• 1 1/2 oz J&B; Rare
• 5 oz Ginger Ale
• 4 dashes of Angostura Aromatic Bitter
• lime wedge

How to Make It:

Take a tall glass and load with ice. Pour in the J&B; Rare. Fill to the brim with ginger ale, and add four dashes of Angostura Aromatic Bitter. Finish by squeezing in the juice of a lime wedge and then add on top as a garnish.