Warm Up with These 20 Cozy Winter Whiskey Cocktails

Winter is here, and what better way to embrace the season than with 20 of the best winter whiskey cocktails? Whether you’re after a cozy warm drink to ward off the chill or a bold classic that celebrates the gorgeous depth of a well-made bourbon, there’s something here for everyone. The rich, complex character of whiskey shines in every recipe, celebrating it as a star player for holiday gatherings, relaxed nights by the embers, and festive celebrations with loved ones.

 1. Whiskey Eggnog

As far as winter whiskey cocktails go, the Whiskey Eggnog is up there with the best of them. In fact, there are many who’d argue that this drinkable custard spiked with liquid gold is the one true winter cocktail. It’s the banisher of chills, the driver of frost, the uncrowned king of the cold! Okay, that’s a bit dramatic but when Lord Whiskey Eggnog, (first of his name) enters the room, you show some respect.   

More eggnog inspiration:  Create Some Christmas Flair with an Eggnog Martini

2. Old Fashioned

A good old-fashioned frosty winter needs a cocktail that’s not going to back down when things get blustery. A cocktail that’s seen it all, done it all, and was literally named after the phrase, ‘they don’t make them like they used to’. Yes, the Old Fashioned is one winter whiskey cocktail you can always count on. It’s a classic blend of whiskey, sugar, and bitters that hits all the right soul-warming spots.  

Also see: Choosing the Best Whiskey for an Old Fashioned

3. Classic Manhattan

Manhattan is no stranger to icy winters, so it makes sense that the iconic Manhattan cocktail thrives in the cold. Rye whiskey takes center stage here, and brings a spicy, peppery character to the drink. It’s supported by sweet vermouth and a shake of bitters for balance. It’s a rye whiskey winter cocktail that’s been with us since the 1800s, and it’ll be around for many winters to come.   

Level up: 17 Irresistible Coupe Glass Cocktails

4. Penicillin

The Penicillin is a slow-sipping, heart-warming cocktail. It uses a blend of Scotch whisky and lemon juice that’s sweetened with a feisty ginger-honey syrup. It’s topped with a float of smoky Islay single malt and garnished with candied ginger. It’s a complex cocktail that’ll tickle your tastebuds, soothe your throat and warm you from the inside out.   

5. Boulevardier

The winter Negroni aka the Boulevardier was invented by an American-born writer who lived in Paris. He was a well-to-do man-about-town who named the cocktail after his French magazine, and voilà — the Boulevardier was born. It has the same nuts and bolts as a Negroni but it replaces gin with whiskey. Sip it slowly with your feet up and enjoy wave after wave of whiskey satisfaction.   

Learn more: Types of Whiskey (An Easy & Concise Guide)

6. Hot Toddy

For a cocktail with such a cute name, the Hot Toddy brings the heat, literally. It’s a steaming mug of whiskey, brown sugar, lemon juice, and hot water that’s spiced with pungent cloves. It dates all the way back to the 1800s— a time when staying warm wasn’t as easy as it is today. The recipe hasn’t changed much since then but feel free to customize your spices for added flavor and complexity.  

7. Cranberry Orange Whiskey Sour

If easy winter whiskey cocktails are your thing, then step right up and say hello to your new favorite drink. The Cranberry Orange Whiskey Sour is a riff on the classic combination of whiskey, citrus, and sugar. The cranberry adds a tart edge while the orange juice brightens things up. It’s balanced with a touch of simple syrup and topped up with spicy ginger beer. It’s festive, refreshing, warming, and perfect for a cold winter’s day.   

Get schooled: Rye vs Bourbon (The Difference Between Rye Whiskey & Bourbon)

8. Brown Sugar Old Fashioned

Right about now you’re probably squinting in confusion. You might have even scrolled up already to check and yes, you’d be correct, this is the second Old Fashioned cocktail on this list. As the name suggests, this version uses brown sugar to add an oh-so-sexy layer of dark, caramel-sugary goodness to the mix. It enhances the sweet and spicy character of the whiskey and creates a complex winter whiskey cocktail.  

9. Apple Cider Whiskey

Like salt and pepper, ketchup and mustard, and a burger with fries, Apple cider and whiskey are just meant to be together. The sweet and tart character of the cider is the perfect platform for whiskey’s warming glow. If you like things spicy then go for a rye whiskey. If you prefer your flavors a little more rounded, then choose a blend. Whichever route you roll the apple down, you’re in for a treat.  

Need even more apple flavor? We’ve got 20 Apple Cider cocktails just for you.  

10. Irish Coffee

For a drink as delicious as Irish Coffee, we’re amazed that it’s only been around since the 1940s. It’s such a simple mix of coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and cream but it’s one of the ultimate hot cocktails. It might even be our winter favorite because the luxury of sipping spiked coffee through a layer of cream never gets old.  

11. Blood and Sand

Named after the 1922 silent movie, the Blood and Sand may come across all danger and bullfighters, but it’s actually a delightful Scotch cocktail. It’s a unique blend of whisky, sweet vermouth, cherry liqueur, and blood orange juice. It may sound a tad sweet but when it all comes together, magic happens. The smooth wooded notes of the Scotch mingle with the fruit and leave you with a lingering sweetness that you won’t soon forget.     

12. Irish Mule

The Mule cocktail is without a doubt one of the simplest and most versatile cocktails ever created. Each version has its own character, and the Irish Mule is no different. It’s a foot-tapping, fast-stepping, ginger-beer-charged Irish whiskey whirlwind that will have you dancing a jig in the dead of winter. The whiskey’s fruity flavors temper the ginger beer’s bite, and leaves you with a long oaky finish. These easy winter whiskey cocktails are perfect for a frosty cocktail party best paired with lots of laughs. 

More this way: 12 Rye Whiskey Cocktails to Make at Home  

13. Sazerac

Named after a famous New Orleans ‘coffee house’ (aka saloon), the Sazerac is one of the oldest cocktails along with the Old Fashioned. It’s a complex and layered cocktail that highlights the spicy character of rye whiskey. The glass is rinsed with licorice-flavored absinthe and the cocktail is balanced out with sugar and bitters. It’s old-school cool and after a few sips of this big boy, you might need to take off your winter coat.    

14. Poison Apple Cocktail

The Poison Apple cocktail feels like a throwback to 80s glam metal with its audacious flavors and edible gold glitter. But it’s actually inspired by Snow White and her fateful apple. Expect a fruity cinnamon bomb with apple cider, cranberry, grenadine, and cinnamon-infused whiskey. If you’re planning a rocking winter theme party anytime soon, then the Poison Apple is just what you need.   

15. Little Italy Cocktail

Did you know that every time you take a sip of the Little Italy cocktail, you’ll involuntarily look to the sky and proclaim, Mama Mia! Okay, that might not be entirely true, but you’ll definitely feel the urge. The Little Italy is a very Italian riff on the classic Manhattan cocktail. It’s a blend of rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, a dash of bitters, and wait for it, an artichoke liqueur. Mama Mia! It’s a lovely winter sipper that will have you longing for an Italian sunlit coastline.   

16. Smoked Manhattan

The Smoked Manhattan is an unforgettable sensory experience, blending rich bourbon with sweet vermouth and a whisper of aromatic smoke. This cocktail is a showstopper, with its caramel hue, marinated cherries at the bottom, and a dramatic plume of cherry wood smoke curling above.

To make one, combine 2 oz Wild Turkey 101 bourbon, 1 oz Cinzano Rosso vermouth, and 2–3 dashes of orange or regular bitters in a cocktail shaker with ice. Stir until chilled, then strain into a coupe or whiskey glass. Add two Luxardo Maraschino cocktail cherries to the glass. Using a smoke lid, place a pinch of cherry wood chips on top, light them with a butane torch, and allow the smoke to infuse the drink. Serve with the smoke rolling off for an unforgettable finish.

Go pro: 6 Smoked Bourbon Cocktails for Beginners and Pros

17. Newton’s Law

Newton’s Law is a cozy winter cocktail that brings together the comforting sweetness of apple butter and the zesty brightness of fresh lemon juice. With its warm bourbon base and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top, this drink is as inviting as it is delicious.

To make one, dissolve 1 teaspoon dark brown sugar in 1 teaspoon hot water in a cocktail shaker and let it cool. Add 1.5 oz bourbon, 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice, and 2 teaspoons apple butter. Fill the shaker with ice and shake until well chilled, about 15 seconds. Strain into an ice-filled rocks glass. Garnish with an orange twist and a dusting of freshly grated or ground cinnamon for a festive finish.

18. Fanciulli

The Fanciulli is a sophisticated take on the Manhattan, blending whiskey, sweet vermouth, and the bold, herbal intensity of Fernet-Branca. Thought to date back to around 1910, this cocktail is a timeless classic for those who enjoy a bittersweet edge to their whiskey drinks.

To make one, combine 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey, 0.75 oz sweet vermouth, and 0.25 oz Fernet-Branca in a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir smoothly for 15–20 seconds, until well chilled, then strain into a chilled coupe glass. This elegant cocktail is perfect for savoring on a crisp winter evening.

19. Kensington

The Kensington is a refined bourbon cocktail that pairs the bittersweet tang of orange marmalade with the smooth complexity of sweet and dry vermouth. Finished with a citrusy twist, it’s a beautifully balanced drink that’s as elegant as it is flavorful.

To make one, combine 2 oz Wild Turkey bourbon, 0.5 oz Cinzano Bianco, 0.5 oz Cinzano Rosso, 2 dashes of bitters, and 1 bar spoon of orange marmalade in a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir until well chilled, about 20–25 seconds, then double-strain it into into a coupe glass. Garnish with an orange twist for a polished final touch.

20. Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour

The Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour is a cozy twist on the classic sour, bringing a touch of sweetness and warmth with maple syrup and a hint of cinnamon. It’s a perfectly balanced cocktail for winter evenings, combining bright citrus with the rich depth of bourbon.

To make one, fill a cocktail shaker or mason jar about two-thirds full with ice. Add 1.5 oz bourbon, 1 oz fresh lemon juice, 0.5 oz (or 3 teaspoons) maple syrup, and a pinch of ground cinnamon. Secure the lid and shake well until chilled. Fill your cocktail glass with fresh ice, then strain the whiskey sour mixture into the glass. Serve and enjoy the wintery flavors of this inviting drink.

Why whiskey is perfect for winter

Whiskey and winter go together like a cozy blanket and a roaring fire. There’s something about its rich, warming nature that feels like an antidote to chilly weather. Whether you’re sipping it neat, spicing it up with seasonal flavors, or adding a smoky twist, whiskey has a way of making the cold feel almost welcome.

What makes whiskey such a winter star? It’s all in the flavors. Think deep caramel notes that melt on your palate, a gentle spice that lingers just enough to warm your soul, and a touch of smoke that mirrors the crackle of a winter fire. These profiles don’t just work well in cocktails—they shine. From bold classics to creative seasonal blends, whiskey’s versatility means there’s a drink for every mood and occasion.

So, whether you’re embracing the frost with a Manhattan or chasing away the chill with a Hot Toddy, whiskey is your perfect winter wingman, ready to transform cold nights into moments of pure comfort.

Tips for making the best winter whiskey cocktails

Making winter whiskey cocktails is an art, and a few thoughtful choices can take your drinks from good to unforgettable. Here’s how to craft the perfect pour:

Choose quality whiskey. The whiskey is the backbone of your cocktail, so pick one that complements the drink’s style. Bourbon brings a smooth, sweet depth, rye adds a spicy kick, and Scotch lends smoky, peaty complexity.

Embrace seasonal ingredients. Winter is the time to lean into warming flavors. Think cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, or even a drizzle of maple syrup. These ingredients can add some snugness and elevate the whiskey’s natural richness.

Mind the temperature. A steaming Hot Toddy is perfect for frosty nights, while a chilled Manhattan or spirit-forward Old Fashioned balances the season’s warmth with a touch of cool sophistication. Choose the temperature of your drinks to match the mood of your winter gathering.

Perfect occasions for winter whiskey cocktails

Winter whiskey cocktails are the ultimate companions for cold-weather celebrations and quiet moments alike. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or enjoying a peaceful evening by the fire, these drinks bring warmth and cheer to every occasion.

Holiday parties. Set the mood at your holiday gatherings with crowd-pleasers like the Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour or the Cranberry Orange Whiskey Sour. The sweet, citrusy flavors of these seasonal clinkers pair beautifully with appetizers like baked brie, charcuterie, or spiced nuts.

Après-ski gatherings. After a day on the slopes, nothing beats the comfort of a Hot Toddy or a Smoked Manhattan. Pair these with elegant bites like smoked salmon blinis, creamy fondue with artisan bread, or a platter of truffle-infused cheeses. These sophisticated snacks are the perfect match for the cocktails’ warming profiles.

Cozy nights by the fire. For a quiet, intimate evening, reach for a Sazerac or the Fanciulli. Their bold, spirit-forward flavors pair well with dark chocolate or a plate of creamy cheese.

Festive dinners. Elevate your dinner table with classics like the Boulevardier or the Old Fashioned. These timeless cocktails complement roast meats, savory stuffing, and caramelized winter veggies.

There you have it, besties. A tasty line-up of winter whiskey cocktails to add some delicious warmth to the chilly season. Tag us on Instagram when you share your creations online, and sign up for our newsletter to receive the freshest drinkspiration hot off the presses. In the meantime, visit the Wild Turkey, Glen Grant, and Russell’s Reserve websites for more gorgeous recipe ideas.