The Whirlpool
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The Whirlpool
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.67 / 5
The Whirlpool cocktail is the brainchild of Greg Buda, Director of Education at the Dead Rabbit, one of the world’s premier cocktail bars. This sophisticated drink starts with a base of Jura 10, a soft and fruity single malt Scotch. It gains complexity from Bonal Gentiane, a wine-based aperitif with herbal and floral notes, and Amaro Nonino, a bittersweet grappa-based amaro. El Dorado 12 Year Rum adds body, while a dash of walnut liqueur and aromatic bitters round out the flavor profile. The result is a well-balanced, elegant cocktail perfect for savoring.
Check out all our FAQ's on this cocktail
Base ingredient
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Whiskey
Calories
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210 calories
Garnish
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orange peel spritz
Alcohol content
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20% | 1.86 units *
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

5/5

The Whirlpool is a symphony of flavors where the warmth of whiskey dances elegantly with the herbal depth of Bonal Gentiane and the bittersweet touch of Amaro. The subtle richness of rum and the nuttiness from the walnut liqueur come together beautifully, creating a complex yet perfectly balanced cocktail that truly feels like a luxurious embrace in a glass.

Method
How to make a The Whirlpool

Serves 4 · Takes 5 minutes
Stir all ingredients with ice, then strain into a chilled coupe glass
Spritz an orange peel over the top and serve immediately

Power tips
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Find out more
Use a high-quality whiskey for depth of character. Opt for a single malt Scotch, like Jura 10, to accentuate the drink's fruity and smoky profile. This choice can balance the bold flavors of Bonal Gentiane and Amaro.
To enhance the complexity, consider aging the cocktail in a small oak barrel for a week. This process softens the blend and imparts a unique layer of oak and vanilla undertones, further complementing the existing ingredients.
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Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Stir  ·  Strain  · 

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Comments

Paul Lockman avatar

switched out the Bonal Gentiane with vermouth and the Gold rum with white rum since that's what I had on hand, and it was still delicious! Loved the nutty undertones from the walnut liqueur. A surprisingly smooth drink for something with such a mix of flavors. Cheers! 🍹

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FAQ's

Origins history icon

Who created The Whirlpool cocktail and what is its history?

The Whirlpool cocktail is a creation of Greg Buda, who serves as the Director of Education at the renowned cocktail bar, the Dead Rabbit. Located in New York City, the Dead Rabbit is celebrated for its innovative cocktails and has won multiple awards. The development of The Whirlpool speaks to Buda's expertise in crafting complex and balanced drinks. The cocktail features a base of Jura 10, which is a soft and fruity single malt Scotch that provides depth, combined with several other distinctive spirits and liqueurs to build a layered flavor profile. Its sophisticated blend and innovative construction have garnered high praise, earning it a score of 4.67 out of 5.

Ingredient specifics icon

What role does Bonal Gentiane play in The Whirlpool cocktail?

Bonal Gentiane is a crucial component in The Whirlpool cocktail, lending it a unique depth and complexity. As a wine-based aperitif from France, Bonal Gentiane is infused with various herbs, notably gentian root, which imparts a distinctive herbal flavor with a slight bitterness. In The Whirlpool, it complements the whiskey and amaro, enhancing the overall complexity and providing a floral and earthy undertone. This balance of bitterness and herbaceous notes makes Bonal Gentiane an essential ingredient, contributing to the sophisticated nature of the drink.

Preparation techniques icon

What is the proper method for preparing The Whirlpool cocktail?

The Whirlpool cocktail is best enjoyed when it's cold and has a smooth, consistent texture, which is achieved by carefully shaking the ingredients with ice. To prepare the cocktail, you will combine the whiskey, Bonal Gentiane, amaro, gold rum, walnut liqueur, and a dash of Peychaud's aromatic bitters in a shaker filled with ice. Shake these ingredients vigorously until well-chilled, as this ensures the flavors are well-mixed and the drink reaches a balanced temperature. The shaking process not only mixes the flavors but also imparts the correct texture by slightly diluting the cocktail with melted ice, which is crucial for achieving the intended taste profile. After shaking, strain the cocktail into a chilled cocktail glass to preserve its refreshing, cold quality.

Alcohol content comparison icon

How does the alcohol content of The Whirlpool compare to other cocktails?

The Whirlpool cocktail has an alcohol content of 20%, which positions it in the mid-range of alcoholic strength when compared to other cocktails. Many classic cocktails, such as martinis or Manhattans, can range from 25% to 30% or higher. The Whirlpool's blend of whiskey, rum, and various liqueurs, along with its 93 ml total volume, allows for a balanced alcoholic strength that can be appreciated by those who enjoy a drink with a moderate kick. This makes it suitable for various occasions, as it can be savored without overpowering the senses.

Food pairings icon

What foods pair well with The Whirlpool cocktail?

The Whirlpool cocktail, with its intricate blend of flavors, pairs excellently with a variety of rich and savory dishes. Consider pairing it with roasted nuts or a cheese platter featuring sharp and aged cheeses like Gouda or Parmesan, which accentuate the nutty and herbal notes of the cocktail. It also complements roasted meats, such as duck or lamb, where the bold flavors harmonize with the cocktail's complexity. Additionally, dishes with a hint of sweetness or citrus can bring out the subtle bittersweet notes from the amaro, creating a well-rounded dining experience. These pairing choices will enhance the overall tasting experience, making The Whirlpool an ideal cocktail for sophisticated gatherings and dinner parties.

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