Ah, International Whisky Day – the only day of the year when it’s totally acceptable to sip and savor the golden nectar of the gods, without a second thought about whether you’ve gone a little overboard. It’s a day to raise your glass and salute the centuries-old traditions of whisky making, and the passionate creators who craft this liquid gold.

Whether you’re into smooth single malts that transport you to the misty highlands of Scotland or rich bourbons that make you feel like you’re basking in the southern sun, there’s a whisky out there for everyone. The beauty of whisky lies in its incredible diversity, offering a world of flavors and experiences that can turn each sip into a journey.

Take single malts, for example—these are the crème de la crème of Scotch whisky, often showcasing the unique character of the distillery’s location and the distillation process. A Highland single malt might offer a bold, earthy taste with hints of heather and smoke, while a Speyside whisky could feature delicate floral notes and a touch of fruitiness. Each one is like a snapshot of its environment, allowing you to experience the rugged cliffs or lush valleys of Scotland with just a sip.

Then there’s the American Bourbon, with its deep, amber glow and rich, caramelized flavors that speak of the golden age of whiskey-making. A good bourbon isn’t just about sweetness; it’s the layers of complexity that truly captivate. You’ll find hints of vanilla, oak, and toasted caramel that remind you of an old Southern porch, warm breezes, and the slow hum of a summer evening. The richness of bourbon, with its bold sweetness and smoky undertones, brings a comfort that’s both familiar and sophisticated.

But let’s not forget the endless variations and innovative blends that whisky makers are constantly creating. From peaty Islay whiskies with their intense, smoky character to smooth Japanese expressions that balance delicate flavors with precision, whisky’s range is as vast as it is exciting. Each dram, whether it’s a classic Scotch or an experimental blend, has its own story to tell—a story that unfolds with each drop, from the first sip to the last. It’s a drink that invites you to explore, savor, and appreciate the artistry behind its creation.

But wait, it gets even better. International Whisky Day isn’t just about enjoying your favorite pour – it’s about experimenting with flavours, mixing it up, and discovering how whisky can be the star of creative cocktails. This year, we’re cranking up the fun dial as TheGlitz brings in the best and brightest bartenders and beverage managers from the iconic Deltin and Hitchki. These masters of the cocktail craft will be showcasing their own unique twists on International Whisky Day, turning traditional whisky drinks into unforgettable experiences. Prepare to be wowed as they play with infusions, garnishes, and pairings you never saw coming. It’s not just whisky – it’s a whole new adventure in a glass! Cheers to that!

Whisky Based Cocktails

Deltin Skyline

Curated by RoshmonGomendes, Bartender at Deltin Zuri, Goa

Ingredients:

• 60ml Whisky
• 15ml Lime juice
• 30ml Orange juice
• 30ml pineapple juice
• 10ml Almond syrup
• 01nos Egg white (optional)
• 45ml Red wine
• Garnish with cherry and orange slice

Making procedure:

It’s a layered cocktail so we took a Rock Glass. Pour 60ml of whisky along with 15ml lime juice, 60ml orange juice, 60ml pineapple juice, 10ml almond syrup and 01 egg white(optional) into a shaker. Should be Dry Shaken. Pour the mixture in chilled Rock Glass and finally top up with 45ml of red wine slowly. There your Deltin Skyline is ready to serve.

Guava Whiskey Martini

Curated by Sunny Fernandes, Bartender at Deltin Royale, Goa

Ingredients;

• Whiskey (60ml)
• Lime juice (15ml)
• Guava juice (60ml)
• Pineapple juice (30ml)
• Blue caracao (5ml)
• Egg white
• Garnish it with pineapple & cherry 

Procedure of making:

It is a shaken cocktail

take a shaker pour all the above ingredients in the shaker with some ice and shake for 10 to 15 seconds or shake until the shaker become frosty than pour in the martini glass

Garnish it with pineapple cherry and your drink is ready to serve. Enjoy!

Daaru Desi

Curated by Cedrik Rodrigues, Beverages – Manager at Hitchki

Ingredients:

• 45 ml Bourbon Whisky
• 10 ml Sugar Syrup
• 15 ml Lime Juice
• 2 TBS Apricot Puree
• 3 Dash Bitters
• 100 gms Ice

Preparation:

• Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
• Shake vigorously until well chilled.
• Stir & Serve

Paan Banaras Wala

Curated by Cedrik Rodrigues, Beverages – Manager at Hitchki

Ingredients:

• 60 ml Jim Beam White
• 2 no Fresh Paan
• 1 mg Cloves
• 10 gmsGulkand
• 30 ml Pineapple Juice
• 10 ml Sugar Syrup
• 1 dash Homemade Angostura
• Paan
• 100 gms Ice

Preparation:

• Muddle and shake all ingredients over ice and fine strain in a chilled Coupe glass.
• Half Cut Paan for garnish