I have something to admit. 

When I first started exploring scotch whisky, I was so intimidated.

A few of my guy friends would order a scotch-based cocktail at the bar and I’d try a sip. Honestly, it was not my favorite liquor to experiment with.

Scotch has this reputation for being a sophisticated, acquired taste that requires a certain level of knowledge and appreciation.

And I didn’t think I’d ever be ready for it.

But here’s the thing—once I dove into the world of scotch whisky, I discovered there’s a lot more versatility than I expected, especially when it comes to Scotch cocktails.

So, if you’re new to Scotch or looking to mix things up, you’re in the right place.

This guide will walk you through some of my favorite Scotch whisky drinks for beginners, the differences between single malt and blended Scotch, how to pick the best bottle of Scotch, and classic cocktails to try out.

Let’s get started!

A Brief History of Scotch Whisky

Before we dive into the cocktail recipes, let’s take a quick look at the history of Scotch whisky. 

Scotch, by definition, must be produced in Scotland, aged for at least three years in oak barrels, and made primarily from malted barley (hence the term “malt whisky”). The distillation process has been perfected over centuries, with Scotch distilleries making everything from smoky Islay Scotch to the smooth Highland varieties.

Scotch whisky comes in a few different styles, the most common being single malt and blended Scotch. Single malt Scotch is made at a single distillery from malted barley, while blended Scotch is a mix of single malts and other whiskies.

Both types are great in cocktails, depending on the flavor profile you’re aiming for.

Tasting Notes: What to Expect from Scotch Whisky

If you’ve never tried Scotch before, the flavors might surprise you. Scotch is known for its complex flavor profile, with notes that can range from smoky and peaty to fruity and floral. 

Here are some common tasting notes you might experience:

• Vanilla notes from the oak barrels
• A subtle smokiness or peatiness (especially in Islay Scotch)
• Citrus and spice in certain single-malt Scotch whiskies
• A richer, more robust flavor from blended Scotch

The best way to get acquainted with Scotch’s flavor is to try it neat (no ice or mixers) or with a couple drops of water to open up the flavors.

But if you’re like me and want to ease into Scotch, starting with a few simple cocktails is a great option.

Classic Scotch Cocktails for Beginners

When it comes to Scotch cocktails, you don’t need fancy ingredients or techniques. Scotch’s natural flavors are robust, so it pairs well with a variety of mixers. 

Here are some easy cocktails to try:

Scotch Highball

One of the simplest and most refreshing ways to enjoy Scotch is in a Scotch highball. This drink is perfect for beginners because it’s light, crisp, and not too overwhelming.

• 2 oz blended Scotch whisky
• Ginger ale or club soda
• Lemon twist for garnish

Fill a tall glass with ice cubes, pour in the Scotch, and top with ginger ale or club soda. Garnish with a lemon twist, and you’ve got a light, refreshing cocktail.

Rob Roy

If you’ve ever heard of a Manhattan, the Rob Roy is its Scotch cousin. It’s a classic drink named after the famous opera singer, Rob Roy, and it’s a great introduction to Scotch cocktails for beginners.

• 2 oz blended Scotch whisky (I like Johnnie Walker Black Label for this)
• 1 oz sweet vermouth
• A couple dashes of angostura bitters

Add all the ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Stir, strain into a rocks glass, and garnish with a maraschino cherry.

Rusty Nail

Another classic cocktail, the Rusty Nail is simple and packs a punch. It’s perfect for those who enjoy sweeter, richer flavors.

• 2 oz Scotch whisky
• 1 oz Drambuie (a Scotch-based liqueur with honey and herbs)

Stir the ingredients together in a rocks glass over ice, and garnish with a lemon twist. This 

cocktail has a smooth, sweet finish with a little bit of spice.

Penicillin Cocktail

This modern classic is one of my favorite Scotch cocktails. It combines the smokiness of Scotch with the zesty bite of ginger and the sweetness of honey-ginger syrup.

• 2 oz blended Scotch whisky (like Monkey Shoulder)
• 3/4 oz lemon juice
• 3/4 oz honey-ginger syrup
• 1/4 oz Islay Scotch for a smoky finish

Shake the Scotch, lemon juice, and syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice. Strain into an old-fashioned glass over ice, and float the Islay Scotch on top.

Hot Toddy

When the weather cools down, nothing beats a Hot Toddy made with Scotch. This classic drink is comforting, simple to make, and perfect for cozy evenings.

• 2 oz Scotch whisky
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/2 oz lemon juice
• Hot water
• Lemon peel or cinnamon stick for garnish

Stir the honey, Scotch, and lemon juice in a mug, and top with hot water. Garnish with a lemon peel or cinnamon stick for a touch of extra flavor. This drink is soothing and warms you from the inside out, making it one of my go-to Scotch cocktails for cold nights.

Whiskey Sour with Scotch

I love a good Whiskey Sour, and making one with Scotch gives this classic drink a whole new character. The balance of sweet and sour notes works beautifully with Scotch’s complex flavors.

• 2 oz Scotch whisky
• 3/4 oz lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Maraschino cherry for garnish

Shake the Scotch, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice, then strain into a glass. Garnish with a maraschino cherry and enjoy the tart, sweet flavor with the rich depth of Scotch.

Scotch Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is a whisky lover’s classic, and while it’s often made with rye whiskey or bourbon, using Scotch gives it a new twist.

• 2 oz Scotch whisky
• 1/2 oz simple syrup or a sugar cube
• A couple dashes of Angostura bitters
• Orange twist for garnish

Muddle the sugar and bitters in an old-fashioned glass, then add ice and Scotch. Stir until well combined and garnish with an orange twist. The Scotch version of this classic cocktail has a slightly smokier flavor than the bourbon version, and it’s become one of my favorites for slow sipping.

Scotch vs. Other Whiskies

If you’re new to whisky, you might wonder how Scotch compares to other types of whisky, such as rye whiskey, bourbon, or Irish whiskey. The key difference lies in the ingredients and production process:

• Scotch whisky: Made primarily from malted barley, Scotch is known for its smoky or peaty flavors.
• Rye whiskey: Made from rye grain, this whiskey tends to be spicier and drier than Scotch.
• Bourbon: Made primarily from corn, bourbon is sweeter and often has strong vanilla and caramel notes.
• Irish whiskey: Typically lighter and smoother than Scotch, made from a mix of barley and other grains.

Each whisky has its own flavor profile, and the best way to find your favorite is by trying them all—whether neat or in cocktails.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best way to drink Scotch whisky?

A: There’s no wrong way to drink Scotch. Some people prefer it neat, while others enjoy it with a splash of water or ice. If you’re new to Scotch, starting with a whisky cocktail like a Scotch highball or Rob Roy is a great way to ease into the flavors.

Q: Should I use single malt or blended Scotch in cocktails?

A: Both are great options! Blended Scotch is often more affordable and works well in cocktails like the Scotch highball. For cocktails that require a richer flavor, like the Rob Roy or Rusty Nail, single malt Scotch can add more complexity.

Q: What are some good beginner Scotches?

A: If you’re just starting out, I recommend trying a blended Scotch like Johnnie Walker Black Label or Monkey Shoulder. They’re smooth, approachable, and perfect for mixing in cocktails.

Q: Can I mix Scotch with other fruit juices?

A: Absolutely! While Scotch is traditionally paired with simpler mixers like ginger ale or club soda, don’t hesitate to experiment with orange juice, lime juice, or even pineapple juice for a tropical twist.

Q: What is the best Scotch cocktail for a beginner?

A: I’d say the Scotch highball or Rusty Nail are excellent starter drinks. They’re simple, tasty, and really let the Scotch shine without being overpowering.

Pro Tips for Enjoying Scotch

If you’re ready to dive into the world of Scotch, here are a few tips that have helped me along the way:

• Start slow: Scotch is best enjoyed in slow sips to fully appreciate its complexity.
• Room temperature: If you’re drinking Scotch neat, make sure it’s at room temperature for the best flavor.
• Use the right glass: A whisky glass or rocks glass is perfect for enjoying Scotch neat, while a tall glass works great for highballs.

Whether you’re just starting to explore Scotch or are a seasoned Scotch lover, these easy cocktail recipes will help you appreciate the versatility of this iconic spirit.

With so many different styles and flavor profiles, there’s a Scotch cocktail for everyone, no matter your experience level.

So grab your favorite bottle of Scotch, mix up a drink, and enjoy the journey. Cheers!