Three simple cocktails showcase a different side of a rich, revolutionary spirit — Johnnie Walker High Rye. Whether you’re enjoying a chill date night or hosting a high-energy hangout, Johnnie Walker High Rye elevates the occasion. 

It might not seem like rye whiskey and blended scotch have too much in common. For one thing, a massive ocean separates the distilleries where these iconic whiskies are produced and aged. A revolutionary spirit, however, proves that the two styles are surprisingly compatible. Johnnie Walker High Rye brings the bold flavor of rye to the smooth, subtly sweet and smoky Black Label. The resulting taste is even more flavorful than the sum of its parts.

You can fully appreciate the complex, irresistible flavor profile of Johnnie Walker High Rye by sipping it neat or on the rocks. But it can also elevate elegant, easy-to-make cocktails. Lacy Hawkins, Brand Ambassador for Johnnie Walker, walked us through three recipes that showcase different sides of this sensational spirit, each one perfect for a different kind of evening. Take a look to see which rye cocktails you should serve the next time you’re hosting. 

Ingredients

1 1/4 ounce Johnnie Walker High Rye

1 ounce Campari

1 ounce Sweet vermouth

Garnish: Orange twist

Glass: Rocks or Old Fashioned

Instructions

1. Pour ingredients into a mixing glass with ice. Stir until well-chilled.

2. Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.

3. Garnish with an orange twist.

Ingredients

1 1/2 ounce Johnnie Walker High Rye

1 ounce Sweet vermouth

2 dashes Aromatic bitters

Garnish: Brandied cherries 

Glass: Coupe

Instructions

1. Add the Johnnie Walker High Rye, sweet vermouth and bitters to a mixing glass with ice. Stir until well-chilled.

2. Strain into a coupe glass.

3. Garnish with brandied cherries on a spear.

Ingredients

1 1/2 ounce Johnnie Walker High Rye

1/4 ounce Simple syrup

2 dashes Peychaud's Bitters

1/4 ounce Absinthe or anise liqueur

Garnish: Lemon twist

Glass: Rocks or Old Fashioned

Instructions 

1. Chill an old-fashioned glass by filling it with ice. Let it sit while you prepare the rest of the drink.

2. In a mixing glass, add your simple syrup, bitters, Johnnie Walker High Rye and ice. Stir.

3. Discard the ice from the mixing chilled glass. Rinse it with the absinthe or anise liqueur. To rinse the glass, pour a small amount of the liqueur into the glass, swirl it around, then discard the liquid.

4. Pour the whiskey mixture into the absinthe-rinsed glass.

5. Gently squeeze the lemon twist by pinching the edges on both sides (yellow peel facing out towards the drink, white rind of zest facing you as it is squeezed) over the drink to release its essence. 

6. (Optional) If you’d like a garnish for the cocktail, lay the peel on the rim of the glass.