Whirlaway
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Whirlaway
Cocktail recipe

Rating

3.94 / 5
The Whirlaway cocktail is a refreshing and effervescent drink with a blend of citrus, herbal, and bourbon notes. Named presumably after the 1941 Kentucky Derby winner, this highball offers the sweet and zesty flavors of Triple Sec, complemented by the spicy undertones of Angostura Bitters. Bourbon provides a robust and oaky foundation, creating a complex and spirited base. When married with the crispness of tonic water, it becomes a light, invigorating beverage often enjoyed in a tall highball glass, which allows the diverse flavors to meld together beautifully as one sips. The Whirlaway is an interesting choice for those who appreciate the depth of bourbon balanced with the brightness of citrus and the quinine tang of tonic water, encapsulating a uniquely American cocktail experience.
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Microbadges

15 key ingredients
Base ingredient
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Bourbon
Calories
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193 calories
Alcohol content
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12% | 3.6 units *

Tags

Bourbon ingredient icon
Bourbon cocktails

Highball glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Triple Sec cocktail ingredient icon for the Whirlaway cocktail
Triple Sec
Angostura Bitters cocktail ingredient icon for the Whirlaway cocktail
Angostura Bitters
Tonic water cocktail ingredient icon for the Whirlaway cocktail
Tonic water
Bourbon cocktail ingredient icon for the Whirlaway cocktail
Bourbon
Serves:
-
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

4/5

Whirlaway delivers a bright burst of citrus and herbal notes, with Triple Sec's zesty sweetness and Angostura's spicy hint weaving through bourbon’s oaky base. Tonic water adds a refreshing quinine edge, crafting a cocktail that’s effervescent yet warmly complex.

Method
How to make a Whirlaway

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Add all the ingredients, except the water, into a cocktail shaker with ice
Strain into a highball glass and top up with the sparkling water before serving

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Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Strain  ·  Highball  · 

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FAQ's

Preparation techniques icon

How do you properly shake the Whirlaway cocktail to ensure its coldness and flavor?

To properly shake the Whirlaway cocktail, you should fill a shaker with ice and add the bourbon, triple sec, and a dash of Angostura bitters. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to chill the mixture and dilute it slightly, ensuring a cold drink with well-blended flavors. Then strain it into a highball glass filled with ice and top up with tonic water.

Serving suggestions icon

What is the best way to serve the Whirlaway to enhance its enjoyment?

The best way to serve the Whirlaway is in a chilled highball glass. First, fill the glass with fresh ice to ensure the cocktail remains cold longer. After shaking the ingredients and straining into the glass, top with tonic water for a refreshing fizz. Serve immediately, optionally garnishing with a lemon twist or a slice of orange to accentuate the citrus notes.

Ingredient substitutions icon

Can I substitute the bourbon in the Whirlaway with another type of whiskey?

Yes, you can substitute bourbon with another type of whiskey in the Whirlaway cocktail, although the flavor profile will change slightly. Rye whiskey can offer a spicier touch, while Scotch will introduce smoky notes. Remember, the substitution should align with personal taste preferences as it will affect the overall character of the drink.

Alcohol content comparison icon

How does the alcohol content in the Whirlaway compare to a standard cocktail?

The Whirlaway has an alcohol content of 12%, which is relatively moderate for cocktails. Standard cocktails typically range from 10% to 15% alcohol by volume (ABV), depending on the ingredients and their proportions. Therefore, the Whirlaway falls within the average range, making it neither particularly strong nor weak compared to other cocktails.

Food pairings icon

What food pairings would complement the flavors of the Whirlaway?

The Whirlaway, with its blend of bourbon's warmth, the citrusy sweetness of triple sec, the spice of Angostura bitters, and the refreshing fizz of tonic water, pairs well with savory appetizers or grilled meats. It complements the smokiness of barbecue and the rich flavors of dishes like pulled pork sliders or spicy chicken wings. For a lighter option, consider pairing it with a citrus-based salad or sushi that can echo the cocktail's balance of sweetness and acidity.

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* US units estimated based on the standard alcohol content of the ingredients used and the proportions in the recipe. Please drink responsibly.
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