5 Whisky Cocktails Most-Loved By Indian Connoisseurs And Tips To Blend Them
Across the Indian subcontinent, whisky cocktails are prepared in ways that explore the regional diversity and flavour cultures particular to distinct regions. This usage of whisky and the making of whisky cocktails can be attributed to the widespread presence of this spirit in consumer markets as well as its sheer versatility which opens the liquor up to a number of diverse regional flourishes.
It is no wonder then that Indian connoisseurs of whisky are partial to some cocktails which are classic renditions, albeit with a regional twist. Some of these blends have garnered much popularity and can be prepared with ease, following certain simple tips, while hosting a cocktail night at home which places whisky as the central spirit.
Read on below to know more about some of the whisky cocktails that Indian connoisseurs most love to blend and a few tips to make each one:
Indian Style Whisky Sour
One classic cocktail which stands out because of the way in which it has been incorporated into Indian mixology cultures is the whisky sour. This drink is traditionally concocted using about 30 ml of good quality bourbon along with a dash of lime juice which brings in the namesake sour touch and of course, the egg white foam which is its defining feature. The Indian version of this whisky cocktail introduces a local touch by swapping out the lime juice for a regional sweet lime or mosambi juice which builds a fruitier flavour into the mix.
Pro Tip: Use freshly squeezed mosambi juice or even fresh kagzi nimbu juice to bring a brighter Indian touch into the recipe.
Masala Highball
A drink which marks the sweet and spicy touch which is so often associated with Indian cuisine, this highball cocktail is essentially a combination of these regional notes paired with a classic cocktail recipe. The masala highball can be prepared using 30 ml of any premium whisky of choice, topped off with 60 ml sparkling water or cola. What lends it a masala touch is the addition of cumin powder or a chaat masala rim which introduces that classic zingy flavour characteristic of Indian cuisine.
Pro Tip: Use good quality Indian whisky infused with local botanicals such as 30 ml Godawan whisky or any other premium whisky of choice to bring forth this regional flavour in a more pronounced manner.
Also Read: Stylish Home Hosting Guide: How To Make Single Malt Whisky Cocktails For Parties
Smoked Whisky Old Fashioned
Another drink which is an exquisite blend of Indian spices with a classic cocktail concoction and which is particularly favoured as a mix had with Indian culinary preparations is the smoked whisky old fashioned. Many trendy Indian bars have now begun crafting sandalwood smoke which is infused into the classic cocktail to lend it a dramatic flourish. Others add smoked spices such as cinnamon, star anise and even bay leaves to this classic preparation to impart deeper flavours into the sour and tart blend.
Pro Tip: While working with aromatic smoke, also go for garnishes like a smoked cinnamon stick to build into these deep and earthy notes which lend the drink much complexity.
Whisky With Ginger Ale And Curry Leaves
A fresh and bright drink akin to a highball cocktail, this one can be concocted using 30 ml Johnnie Walker Black Label or any other premium whisky of choice that is topped off with about 60 ml ginger ale. Garnished with curry leaves, the drink achieves a sharp, aromatic and savoury edge that lends it the distinct local flavour which has made this cocktail such a favourite among Indian connoisseurs.
Pro Tip: Add a dash of lime juice or any other citrus juice to this cocktail to better highlight the spicy and zingy notes of ginger ale and the herbaceous quality of curry leaves integral to the mix.
Thandai Whisky Flip
One of the more popular drinks especially during the festive season, this creamy blend is concocted by mixing together a number of different spices including fennel, poppy seeds, saffron and almonds with 30 ml Godawan or any other premium whisky of choice. Topped off with egg and garnished with powdered nutmeg, this drink acquires a richness that befits any Indian festive celebratory affair.
Pro Tip: Use a mortar and pestle to grind the spices and dried fruits which are part of this recipe. This will create a coarse thandai masala that brings a lot of flavour depth and textural chewiness into this popular whisky cocktail.
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