Whiskey Ginger
The simple yet refreshing whiskey ginger is a classic combination of ginger ale, whiskey, and fresh lime. Simply pour, stir, and serve this easy-going drink to all the whiskey lovers in your life!
If you love whiskey cocktails, also try a whiskey highball!
Three simple and perfectly paired ingredients are all it takes to make this classic whiskey cocktail recipe. You don't need to use your best whiskey or fancy spirits to make it, either.
A whiskey ginger is a drink for whiskey lovers. It's for those days when you want to enjoy the taste of whiskey, but you also want something cold and thirst-quenching. It's also a great drink for someone who isn't typically a whiskey drinker because the ginger ale mellows it out.
This bubbly drink is refreshing and flavorful, with just the right amount of bite, and it's great with food, too!
Here's a fun fact: a whiskey and ginger ale is called a ‘whiskey ginger', but when using Irish whiskey, it's called an ‘Irish buck'!
Whiskey ginger ingredients
With just 3 ingredients, this refreshing drink comes together in minutes. Here's everything you'll need:
- Whiskey – Canadian (rye whiskey), American, or Irish whiskey are the best type of whiskey for this drink.
- Ginger ale – any ginger ale will work, but we opt for full-bodied ginger ale like this one from Fever-Tree that's perfect for cocktails.
- Lime wedges – a squeeze of lime is an essential finishing touch that adds a pop of bright citrusy flavor. You could also use lemon in a pinch!
Optional: we really like the sweet and spicy bite of candied ginger. If you have some in your pantry, use it to level up this cocktail!
Ginger ale vs. ginger beer
Although they're similar, ginger ale and ginger beer are different drinks with different flavor profiles. Ginger ale is a ginger-flavored, artificially carbonated soda water without any alcohol content. It's sweet smelling and mellow in taste.
Ginger beer is naturally fermented and brewed. Because it's fermented, it contains a small amount of alcohol but is classified as non-alcoholic because it contains less than 0.5%. It has a stronger, more complex ginger flavoring, and a spicy finish. Using it in a whiskey ginger will create a slightly different, more robust version of the classic.
How to make a whiskey ginger
It really couldn't be easier to mix a whiskey ginger and there's no need for a cocktail shaker. Here's how we make it in just two simple steps:
- Start by filling a highball glass with ice.
- Now add the whiskey followed by the ginger ale. Give it a quick stir with a bar spoon, then garnish with a fresh lime wedge on the side of the glass. Serve and enjoy it right away!
Full recipe instructions are in the recipe card below.
How to make a lower alcohol ginger whiskey
While it can definitely be made to taste, 2 ounces of whiskey to 6 ounces of ginger ale is the classic ratio. Want to make a lower alcohol drink? Half the amounts and use a rocks glass instead.
FAQS
A moscow mule is a very similar drink that includes vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice. It is traditionally also served in a distinctive copper mug.
Candied ginger (also called crystallized ginger) can often be found in the bulk or dried fruit aisles of well-stocked grocery stores.
Because scotch is usually more smoky and peaty than Canadian, American, or Irish whiskeys, its nuanced flavor isn't well suited for this drink. However, if you find an unpeated Scottish whiskey, go ahead and use that!
What to serve with a whiskey ginger
Enjoy this refreshing whiskey ginger at happy hour with some crackers and the best bacon jam, or try our irresistible bacon caramel popcorn!
Whiskey and food are a great match. Serve whiskey ginger anytime you would a beer, like at happy hour, as a welcome or pre-game drink alongside appetizers like prosciutto wrapped grilled peaches, or with the main meal.
Popular cocktail recipes
Whiskey Ginger
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Ingredients
- 2 ounces whiskey, American, Irish, or Canadian whiskey
- 6 ounces ginger ale
- Lime wedges, to serve
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Add the whiskey then add the ginger ale. Give it a quick stir then garnish with a lime wedge on the side of the glass and serve it right away.2 ounces whiskey, 6 ounces ginger ale, Lime wedges
