Mixology, or the art of mixing spirits and non-alcoholic beverages, is an evolving discipline perpetually invested in innovating and transforming blends to create mouthwatering concoctions for dynamic and modern cocktail bars and pubs. Single malt is a highly versatile spirit well-suited to diverse alcoholic and non-alcoholic mixers which undercut some of its levity and smokiness to introduce fruity, spicy and fragrant notes into highball drinks. The single malt produced by the Dufftown distillery is a beautiful drink with hints of smokiness and spice, that fits well with the contemporary ‘Plus Two’ trick popularised by the makers of the Singleton.

Plus Two is a clever idea which essentially means bringing together whisky with equal proportions of an alcoholic and non-alcoholic mixer for a 1:1:1 ratio of the drinks. The drink can be prepared by building these ingredients in order and topping them with ice for a fresh and fragrant mix. The tropical plus two, as its name suggests is a delightful summertime quencher made using fruity drinks and citrusy twists for a rejuvenating and refreshing twist. Where fruits add a certain sweetness to complement the smoky spirit, the carbonated water or soda in the mix elevates it enough to lend an irresistible kick.

There are hardly any rules surrounding the plus two method. In fact, you can blend whichever fruity and alcoholic drinks are available in your refrigerator when you set out to mix drinks. One such pairing could be wine, soda and a spot of whisky garnished with a zesty lemon wedge for a flavour profile which literally creates a pleasurable sensation in your mouth.

The tropical version of the plus two is a classic cocktail for a tiki party or an island-themed affair — a laidback gathering in true Hawaiian or Polynesian-style. This drink can be served in shaved coconuts or in patent tiki mugs for utter island feels. A tropical plus two can be blended by adding The Singleton of Glendullan Single Malt Scotch Whisky to equal quantities of guava juice and grapefruit soda for seaside feels. The fruity texture of the juices introduces a freshness in the drink augmented by cold ice cubes added on top and a twisted orange or grapefruit peel garnish for citrusy flavours.

If you plan on turning mixologist at a tiki party you host or attend during the holiday season, you might want to practice a bit at home to get the tropical, summertime drink just right. Read on below for a simple recipe to fix yourself a Singleton Plus Two Tropical which will undoubtedly be the showstopper at any island-themed gathering: