5 Drinks Where Coffee And Whisky Come Together: A Pairing Guide For Beginners
Generally whisky is served neat or on the rocks and the potent bitter and robust notes of this drink are often complimented by black coffee or an iced coffee that offsets some of its more intense flavours. For its part, coffee has a rich aroma and taste of its own that goes well with several different kinds of whiskies.
Evidently so, whisky and coffee has become a classic pairing through time.
For those who are just now starting out their journey into the realm of whisky and are getting to know its different flavour notes, there are different ways in which coffee and whisky can be brought together: either in a cocktail blend or as two drinks had in succession. Either way, for beginners, coffee and whisky can be a tricky pairing to work with, especially while deciphering what kind of roast goes well with which whisky variation.
Here is a pairing guide for those interested in knowing more about different coffee and whisky combinations:
Irish Coffee
One of the most well-known whisky and coffee combinations, the hot Irish coffee drink made by mixing black coffee with an Irish whisky. The finishing touch to this drink comes in the form of a dollop of whipped cream added on top as a garnish.
The roast coffee is brewed so that it exudes its aromatic compounds, which in effect make this cocktail stand out. The Irish whisky and coffee pairing for this cocktail come together when the coffee is a medium brew highlighted without overwhelming the palate with too many overpowering flavours.
Lightly Roasted Coffee And Speyside Scotch
A whisky like the Speyside which has more of a light, floral undercurrent goes well with lightly roasted coffee that also contains notes of raisins and honey which give it a sweet touch.
This coffee and whisky pairing can either be had in the form of an old fashioned cocktail infused with the lightly roasted coffee brew. The drink is best served cold to explore fully the light yet flavourful notes of whisky and coffee.
Espresso And Sherried Whisky
Sherried whisky is essentially a spirit which is stored in casks that previously contained sherry. Sherry is made from grapes and has a sweet aroma and taste which naturally seeps into the whisky when it is poured into these casks.
Such a flavoured whisky can go well with a dark roast espresso to bring about a sharp flavour contrast in the overall tasting experience. The espresso is an intense and bitter drink with caramel-like undertones that are undercut by the dried fruity and spicy notes of sherried whisky.
Iced Coffee And Bourbon
Another way to explore a coffee and whisky pairing is to mix iced coffee with good quality bourbon. A medium roast coffee complete with the intensity of the aromatic drink yet having a lighter flavour component is a good alternative for pairing with quality rye whisky or bourbon and its caramel-like notes.
Make this drink by blending ice, cold brewed coffee and a 30 ml splash of bourbon to explore another variation of the coffee and whisky pairing.
Coffee Old Fashioned
Old fashioned is a classic cocktail and when coffee is introduced into the traditional blend, it makes for an interesting and complex flavour variation.
Pair a cold brew that is made using medium roasted coffee with bourbon, a dash of bitters and some maple or simple syrup to make a drink with myriad flavour notes. Garnish this cocktail with an orange wedge to bring about a classic combination of coffee, whisky and citrusy flavours.
Do remember that like everything, alcohol is best consumed in moderation. Always drink and serve responsibly!
