A classic Whiskey and Ginger Ale cocktail brings together the smooth taste of whiskey with the fizzy sweetness of ginger ale.
Mix one part whiskey with three parts ginger ale over ice. Then, add a squeeze of lime for a refreshing drink that takes less than a minute to make.
The drink gained popularity in the early 1900s when ginger ale became widely available in the United States. People loved how the spicy-sweet mixer balanced the strong taste of whiskey while keeping the drink simple.
This two-ingredient cocktail works well with any type of whiskey. Irish whiskey adds a light, crisp taste, while bourbon creates a richer flavor with hints of vanilla and caramel.
Whiskey & Ginger Ale Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Highball glass or collins glass
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Ice scoop
- Bar spoon
- Citrus knife (for garnish)
Ingredients
- 2 oz whiskey bourbon or Irish whiskey work best
- 4-6 oz ginger ale
- Ice cubes
- Lime wedge or orange slice for garnish optional
Instructions
- Fill the highball glass with ice cubes until it’s about 3/4 full.
- Pour 2 oz of whiskey over the ice using a jigger.
- Add ginger ale slowly to fill the glass, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top.
- Stir gently with a bar spoon to combine the ingredients without losing carbonation.
- Add a lime wedge or orange slice to the rim of the glass.
Notes
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Tasting Notes
The Whiskey & Ginger Ale cocktail offers a bright and refreshing taste with a gentle warmth from the whiskey. The spicy notes of ginger blend smoothly with the caramel and vanilla flavors found in most whiskeys.
A light fizz tingles the tongue while the sweetness of the ginger ale balances the whiskey’s stronger elements. The drink stays crisp and clean from start to finish.
Each sip brings layers of flavor:
- First: Sweet ginger and bubbles
- Middle: Whiskey’s oak and caramel notes
- Finish: Smooth, warming sensation
The drink’s character changes slightly based on the whiskey choice:
- Bourbon creates a sweeter, vanilla-forward taste
- Rye adds more spice and complexity
- Irish whiskey makes it lighter and grassier
Temperature affects the taste profile. Ice keeps it extra refreshing but slightly dilutes the flavors. Meanwhile, serving it without ice produces stronger whiskey notes and more ginger intensity.
The ideal mix ratio of 1:3 (whiskey to ginger ale) creates a balanced drink where neither ingredient overpowers the other.
Substitute
A ginger beer can replace ginger ale in this cocktail. It adds a stronger, spicier kick to the drink.
Diet ginger ale works well for those watching their sugar intake. The taste stays similar to regular ginger ale.
Other whiskey types can swap in for the standard bourbon or rye:
- Scotch whisky
- Irish whiskey
- Canadian whisky
- Japanese whisky
For a non-alcoholic version, apple cider or sparkling apple juice mixed with ginger ale creates a tasty drink. Add a splash of lemon juice to balance the sweetness.
Some people enjoy mixing whiskey with other carbonated drinks:
- Club soda
- Lemon-lime soda
- Cola
- Tonic water
Ginger syrup plus sparkling water can make a fresh substitute for ginger ale. Mix 1 part ginger syrup with 4 parts sparkling water.
