Top Whiskey Cocktails For Summer

Whiskey is often viewed as the drinkers drink; a stiff, caramel liquor enjoyed in a dark, smokey bar with blues on the jukebox and peanut shells littering the floor, or perhaps among the white collar crowd bathed in exclusivity in a members only lounge. There does not always seem to be an inviting factor when pondering whiskey. Rarley are parties heavy on whiskey as social fervor tends to revolve around beer and some sort of vodka punch. Well here are 5 whiskey cocktails that are perfect for your summer party. Whether sitting around the pool or having a late night rager on a hot summer night, these drinks are sure to please all.

The Whiskey Buck is a refreshing drink with lemon and ginger beer. It is not overly sweet and the lemon does a nice job of cutting the potent whiskey flavors.

Ingredients:

• Whiskey
• Lemon Juice
• Simple Syrup
• Ginger Beer
• Ice

In a shaker full of ice, put 2 parts whiskey, 1 part lemon juice, and between 1/2 to 1 part simple syrup adjusted to sweetness preference. Cover and shake vigorously. Pour into a tall cocktail glass full of ice to 3/4 full. Top with ginger beer and enjoy!

The Whiskey Sour is a classic cocktail with several variations. Here is the classice recipe, but try topping with club soda and add whatever fruit garnish you like.

Ingredients:

• Bourbon
• Lemon Juice
• Superfine Sugar

In a shaker combine 2 ounces bourbon, 2/3 ounces lemon juice, and 1 t superfine sugar with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into a sour glass. Garnish with a maraschino cherry.

The Mint Julep is a popular Southern drink and is rejuvenating blend of mint, bourbon, sugar, and water. There are many variations and varieties to this drink. Below is a classic version.

Ingredients:

• Bourbon
• Fresh Mint
• Superfine Sugar
• Water

This drink traditionally served in a silver or pewter cup. Muddle 6 fresh mint leaves with 1 t sugar and a little bit of water. Fill the cup with ice and pour bourbon over. Garnish with fresh mint sprig.

The Lynchburg Lemonade is a delicious cocktail made with Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey. My kind of lemonade!

Ingredients:

• Jack Daniel's
• Triple Sec
• Lemon Juice
• Sugar

Add 1 t sugar and a little warm water to a cocktail glass and stir until dissolved. In a shaker combine ice, sugar water, 2 ounces Jack Daniel's, 1 ounce Triple Sec, and juice of 1 lemon. Shake vigorously and strain into a cocktail glass full of ice. Garnish with lemon.

The Bee's Nest is another drink with amazing flavor and fresh ingredients make all the difference. Enjoy one watching the sunset.

Ingredients:

• Kentucky Rye Whiskey
• Ginger Root
• Fresh, Local Honey

Muddle 1 T ginger and 1 T honey in a shaker or glass. Add 2 ounces whiskey, cover, and shake vigorously. Pour into a rocks glass or old fashioned glass. Garnish with fresh honeycomb.