Whisky cocktails are back in bar menus as homegrown brands push the envelope with innovative blends

Whisky cocktails pair exquisitely with tandoori kebabs and salty peanuts, revealing layers of toffee caramel and oak (Images: Soorahi)

This year, whisky-based cocktails are experiencing a renaissance, captivating both traditionalists and modern drinkers. With their depth, complexity, and versatility, whisky-based drinks are no longer confined to neat pours or classic serves. Instead, mixologists are pushing boundaries, incorporating innovative ingredients to craft cocktails that appeal to a diverse audience.

Whether enjoyed over ice or crafted into an Old Fashioned or a Date & Cinnamon Whisky Sour, whisky cocktails are being re-imagined with spicy and exquisite flavours to appeal to a wider audience. Sarthak Batra, founder and head mixologist at Ikigai, emphasises whisky’s comeback, attributing it to its unparalleled adaptability.

“Whisky is making a strong comeback because of its versatility. With a wide range of flavour profiles—from smoky Scotch to spicy rye and smooth bourbon—there’s something for every palate. Classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned, Manhattan and Whisky Sour are returning, not just as nostalgia but as fresh, re-imagined serves for a new generation. A whisky sour with date syrup, lime and cinnamon is a revelation. Global influences are also playing a role, like the Yuzu Sour, where Japanese whisky blends with yuzu citrus and honey. These innovations highlight whisky’s adaptability while enhancing its depth,” says Batra.

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Made in India:

With mixologists experimenting with complex flavours and premium Indian whiskies carving their niche, whisky lovers can enjoy a refined drinking experience that is both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. Lately, Indian whisky brands like Soorahi and Godawan are getting popular among consumers for their rich heritage and layered flavors making it popular among cocktail lovers.

Today’s drinkers appreciate both classic serves and modern interpretations that enhance whisky’s natural complexity. “With notes of vanilla, malt, caramel, toffee and silky oak, Indian whisky brands offer a smooth and balanced profile that works beautifully in classic cocktails. Their complexity allows bartenders to craft drinks with depth, making every sip an experience,” notes Batra.

Classic recipes in new format:

Whisky’s revival in cocktails is more than just a trend—it’s a testament to its versatility and timeless appeal. Ankur Sachdeva, Co-founder of Soorahi, acknowledges whisky's evolving role in mixology. “Indian whiskies are making their mark worldwide and getting recognition for its quality. For example, our finest blends stand out with its rich vanilla and butterscotch nose, a smooth palate of oak, toffee caramel, and dry-fruit sweetness. It’s an easy-drinking whisky that evolves beautifully — approachable for beginners yet complex enough for seasoned enthusiasts. The interplay of sweetness, spice, and oak creates multi-layered cocktails that appeal to both newcomers and connoisseurs alike," he says.

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Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a thoughtfully crafted cocktail, a smooth blend offers depth and character unmatched by other spirits. This resurgence is evident in the way bartenders and mixologists are embracing whisky's diverse profile and serving it with new garnish and food pairing to enhance cocktail hour experiences. According to Sachdeva, “Whisky cocktails pair exquisitely with tandoori kebabs and salty peanuts, revealing layers of toffee caramel and oak. With a long, dry finish and a hint of smoke, Soorahi lends itself well to both classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned and contemporary twists like a Date & Cinnamon Whisky Sour."