
The rebirth of our herb gardens lends whiskey cocktails a fresh and vibrant spin that neatly fills the void between fireside Manhattans and summer’s whisky Highballs. “Adding herbs in whisky cocktails is a great way to accentuate many of the other elements, like citrus, bitters, and sugar,” says Kaitlin Ryan, bartender at PABU Izakaya in San Francisco. In her words, these drinks are “a bouquet of flavor in a glass.”
Country Club Smash
Coconut water and fresh mint give an island spin to the classic Whiskey Smash.
Get the Recipe: Country Club Smash
Thyme After Time
Balance out peaty scotch with thyme and herbal bitters.
Get the Recipe: Thyme After Time
Kumamoto Sour
Frothy and refreshing, this cocktail uses the fresh, aromatic tones of basil to its advantage.
Get the Recipe: Kumamoto Smash
Rose-Colored Thai
Bourbon complements cilantro, mint, and lime in this soft and silky drink.