7 delicious Summer Whisky Cocktails

Your guide to delicious summer whisky cocktails from The Borders Distillery.

Written by: Olivia Pattison
Date Published:: 04 June 2026
Categorized as:: Recipes

Why cocktails and whisky go together

Whisky is often associated with winter evenings and roaring fires, but Scotch whisky is one of the most versatile spirits behind the bar.

With the right ingredients, it creates refreshing, vibrant cocktails that are perfect for summer entertaining.

Whether you’re hosting a garden party, firing up the barbecue, or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon, these easy summer whisky cocktails deserve a place in your repertoire.

Pictured: Borders Malt & Rye

1. Whisky Highball

A classic in the world of whisky cocktails. Simple, refreshing, and endlessly drinkable.

Ingredients:

50ml Scotch whisky
Chilled soda water
Ice
Lemon slice

Method:
Fill a tall glass with ice, add whisky, top with soda water and garnish with lemon.

2. Borders Basil Julep

Made just for Right As Rain. This summery highball combines fresh herby notes with mellow peachy notes encapsulating a summers day in a glass.

Ingredients:

50ml Right As Rain
Peach syrup
Fresh basil
Soda water
Crushed ice

Method:
Build over crushed ice, stir well and top with soda.

The combination of peach, basil and whisky creates a bright, summery serve.

3. Malt & Rye Spritz

A Scotch twist on the classic spritz.

Ingredients:

50ml Borders Malt & Rye
Orange bitters
Orange peel
Soda water

Method:
Serve over ice and garnish generously with orange peel.

4. Whisky Sour

A timeless and refreshing classic.

Ingredients:

50ml The Long & Short of it
25ml lemon juice
15ml sugar syrup
Dash of bitters

Method:
Shake with ice and strain into a tumbler. Garnish with some zest, and a cherry if you’re feeling fun.

5. Long & Sour

A refreshing take on a whisky sour.

Ingredients:

50ml The Long & Short of It
Lemon juice
Sugar syrup
Soda water

Method:
Build over ice and top with soda.

6. Juelp Dupe

Ingredients:

50ml Malt & Rye
Mint
Lime
Soda water
Sugar

Method:
Muddle mint and lime, add whisky and ice, then top with soda.

7. The lowdown

Ingredients:

50ml Lower East Side
1 half pineapple juice
1 half ginger ale

Method:
Add whisky and ice, then top with half pineapple juice and half ginger ale.

Why Whisky Works in Summer

Many people overlook whisky when temperatures rise, but lighter serves allow the spirit’s fruit and spice notes to shine.

Highballs, spritzes, and long drinks offer a refreshing alternative to gin or vodka while retaining all the character that makes Scotch whisky special.

Final Thoughts

Summer is the perfect time to experiment with whisky.

Whether you’re enjoying a simple highball or creating something more adventurous, Scotch whisky offers endless possibilities for warm-weather drinking.

Let us know if you try these summer whisky cocktails.

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FAQs

Are whisky highballs popular?

Yes. They are among the world’s most popular whisky serves and are easy to make.

Can single malt be used in cocktails?

Absolutely. Many modern cocktails use single malt whisky.

Are blended scotch whiskies good for cocktails?

Blended Scotch whiskies often work brilliantly thanks to their balance and versatility.

What kit do I need to make cocktails?

You don’t need a fully stocked bar to get started. A cocktail shaker, jigger (measuring tool), strainer, bar spoon and muddler will cover most classic cocktails. Add some fresh citrus, ice and a few quality spirits, and you’ll have everything you need to start mixing drinks at home.

What is the best way to enjoy scotch whisky?

The best way to enjoy Scotch whisky is the way that you enjoy it.

Scotch whisky is incredibly versatile and works just as well in cocktails as it does neat. From refreshing Highballs and Whisky Sours to modern serves with fruit, herbs and mixers, cocktails are a great way to explore different flavours and enjoy whisky your own way.