Whiskey Fizz Cocktail Recipe
Whiskey Fizz Nutrition Facts
Calories:200
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:15g
Alcohol:15%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: August 23, 2024
Contents
History
The Whiskey Fizz is a classic cocktail that dates back to the late 19th century. It is a variation of the popular Gin Fizz, which was created by substituting whiskey for gin. The Whiskey Fizz became popular in the United States during the Prohibition era, as whiskey was more readily available than gin. This refreshing cocktail is a favorite among whiskey lovers and is perfect for warm summer evenings.
- Origin: Late 19th century
- Popular during Prohibition era
- A variation of the Gin Fizz
How Whiskey Fizz Tastes?
The Whiskey Fizz has a balanced taste with a combination of sweet, sour, and slightly bitter flavors. The whiskey provides a strong, smooth base, while the lemon juice adds a refreshing tartness. The simple syrup sweetens the drink, and the club soda gives it a light, fizzy texture.
Interesting facts about Whiskey Fizz
- The Whiskey Fizz was popular during the Prohibition era because whiskey was more readily available than gin.
- The cocktail is a variation of the Gin Fizz, which is made with gin instead of whiskey.
- The Whiskey Fizz is sometimes called a Bourbon Fizz when made with bourbon whiskey.
Ingredients
- Whiskey: 2 oz(60ml)
- Lemon juice: 1 oz(30ml)
- Simple syrup: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Club soda: 2 oz(60ml)
- Ice: As needed
- Lemon wheel: 1
- Cherry: 1
Whiskey
Whiskey is the backbone of a Whiskey Fizz, providing a rich, warming base. Use 2 oz — no more, no less — to keep the alcohol content balanced with the other flavors. A lighter bourbon is often preferred for its mellow characteristics, though you're welcome to experiment with rye for a spicier kick. Skip it, and the name 'Whiskey Fizz' fizzles out.
Alex Green
Lemon Juice
The sharp zing of 1 oz fresh lemon juice brightens the palate and contrasts the whiskey's sweetness. It's just enough to add a citrusy punch without turning the drink sour. Substitute it with lime juice for a tangier profile.
Emma Rose
Simple Syrup
Half an ounce of sweet, sweet simple syrup counterbalances the lemon's tartness. Add more, and you're tip-toeing into cloying territory; less, and the lemon might pucker your lips a bit too much. Maple syrup is a fine alternative, offering a more complex, autumnal sweetness.
Mary Mitkina
Club Soda
2 oz of bubbly club soda deliver the 'fizz', giving the drink a refreshing lift. More than 2 oz and you might drown the other flavors; less and the fizz becomes a mere whisper. Tonic water could substitute for a bitter twist.
Alex Green
Ice
Not just to chill, but to dilute slightly, taming down the whiskey and allowing flavors to meld. No ice? Expect a lukewarm, overly potent drink. Nobody wants that! And remember, ice quality matters – clear cubes are not only prettier but also melt slower.
Emma Rose
Lemon Wheel
A slice of lemon perched on the rim is a zesty invitation to sip. It's garnish with gusto, contributing to the aroma and the aesthetic. Swing away, and you're missing a citrusy accent and eye candy.
Mary Mitkina
Cherry
The cocktail's cherry on top! It offers a pop of color and a hint of sweet fruitiness in finishing your drink. Skip the cherry, and you miss out on that classic garnish smile.
Alex Green
Recipe. How to make Whiskey Fizz Drink
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice
- Add whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup
- Shake well until chilled
- Strain into a glass filled with ice
- Top with club soda
- Garnish with a lemon wheel and a cherry
Pro Tips
- Use fresh lemon juice for a more refreshing taste.
- Chill the glass before pouring the cocktail to keep it cool longer.
- Shake well to properly mix all the ingredients and get the perfect fizz.
Perfect Pairings
Food Pairings
- Grilled Meats: The whiskey's richness and the cocktail's acidity can cut through the fat and complement the smoky flavors.
- Fried Appetizers: Items like fried calamari or onion rings pair well with the fizz's effervescence and citrus notes.
- Salty Snacks: Salty nuts, pretzels, or chips can balance the sweetness of the cocktail.
Drink Pairings
- Cold Brew Coffee: For a non-alcoholic option, the bitterness of cold brew can contrast nicely with the cocktail's sweetness.
- Amber Ale: Beer lovers might enjoy the complementing flavors of a malty amber ale.
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What you could change in Whiskey Fizz
- Whiskey: You can use bourbon or rye whiskey.
- Lemon juice: Lime juice can be used as a substitute.
- Simple syrup: Honey or agave syrup can be used as a natural sweetener.
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Smoky Whiskey Fizz
- Swap traditional whiskey for a smoky Scotch whisky.
- Add a dash of aromatic bitters. The peaty flavor of Scotch and the complexity of bitters bring a new dimension to the classic—perfect for those who love a smoky edge in their drink.
Spiced Apple Whiskey Fizz
- Use apple-flavored whiskey or add a half ounce of apple cider.
- Include a cinnamon stick for garnish. A warm, aromatic twist that'll remind you of autumn orchards and spice markets. It's fall in a glass!
Berry Bliss Whiskey Fizz
- Muddle a few raspberries or blackberries before shaking.
- Top with a splash of elderflower liqueur. The berries lend a tart sweetness, and the elderflower adds a floral note, giving this drink a fruit garden freshness that's simply un-fizz-istable!
In case you forgot basics how to make Whiskey Fizz
The basic composition of simple syrup is relatively straightforward – a 1:1 ratio of sugar and water. This mixture is heated until the sugar dissolves, resulting in a clear, sweet syrup.
Learn everything about simple syrupAdd your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.
Learn everything on how to shakePlace your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
Learn everything on how to strainGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
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Frequently Asked Questions on Whiskey Fizz
What other types of Fizz cocktails are there?
In addition to the Whiskey Fizz and the Gin Fizz, there are also variations such as the Vodka Fizz, Brandy Fizz, and Rum Fizz.
Why is it called a 'Fizz' cocktail?
It's called a 'Fizz' because of the sound that the carbonated water (club soda) makes when it's added to the drink. The fizzing sound is also part of the sensory enjoyment of drinking a Fizz.
What time of day is best for serving a Whiskey Fizz?
A Whiskey Fizz is a versatile cocktail that can be enjoyed at any time of day. However, it's often served at brunch or in the early evening as an aperitif because of its refreshing and light properties.
What's the difference between a cocktail and a highball?
A cocktail is a general term for a mixed drink that can contain spirits, sugars, and bitters. A highball, on the other hand, is a specific type of cocktail made from a base spirit and a larger proportion of non-alcoholic mixer, often carbonated.
Can I use sparkling water instead of club soda in a Whiskey Fizz?
You can use sparkling water as a substitute for club soda, but it may alter the taste slightly. Club soda contains salts that can enhance the flavor of the drink.
Is there an ideal whiskey to use in a Whiskey Fizz?
Any good quality whiskey should work fine in a Whiskey Fizz. However, a whiskey with a smoother, lighter profile might work best to balance the lemon juice and simple syrup.
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