What is a Dirty Whiskey?
Dirty whiskey is a type of whiskey that has been mixed with other liquids or solids such as cola, vermouth or bitters. It’s an interesting way to both stretch out a bottle of expensive whiskey, as well as add a unique flavor to drinks. Despite its unsanitary sounding name, dirty whiskey is actually quite enjoyable.
It’s especially popular among whiskey connoisseurs, who celebrate the smokiness of whiskey that’s complemented by low-proof ingredients like bitter and cola. Dirty whiskey is also a low-alcohol alternative for those who are looking for a lighter finish in their drinks.
Getting the Perfect Ratio for a Dirty Whiskey
Making a perfect dirty whiskey is all about achieving the perfect ratio. Too much of any one ingredient can overpower the drink, but when done correctly, the flavors mingle together in a beautiful harmony.
If you’re looking to make the perfect dirty whiskey, start with a whiskey that’s high in flavor. Tequila and whiskey work best for this type of drink. Once you’ve made your base, add in a small splash (or two) of vermouth. This adds an herbal flavor and aroma to the drink while not being overpoweringly oily. Next, bitter can be added in, either as a drop or a quarter teaspoon. This will give your dirty whiskey some depth and complexity while still letting the whiskey shine through. Finally, top with cola until the concoction reach the perfect balance.
Making it Sparkly
Many people who make dirty whiskey aren’t satisfied with just the flavors that are added, so they add an extra level of complexity by making a sparkly version. This is a great way to get a light, fruity flavor without sacrificing the smokiness of the whiskey.
The key to making a sparkly dirty whiskey is to add sugar, either in the form of sugar syrup or simple syrup (just sugar and water). Sugar adds a sweetness that can be balanced out with the bitterness of the vermouth and cola. Start with a teaspoon and gradually add more until you get the perfect sparkling mixture. Don’t forget to add a few dashes of bitters to give it more depth and complexity.
Serving Dirty Whiskey
Now that you’ve got your yummy dirty whiskey all mixed up and ready to go, it’s time to serve it up. Dirty whiskey is a great way to dress up your favorite whiskey drinks, whether it’s an old-fashioned or a classic kentucky mule. It can also be served as a classic shot, either neat or with a splash of cola.
For best results, use a wide-bottomed glass to serve your dirty whiskey. The wide mouth gives you more surface area for the beverage to evaporate and release its aromas. Add a few cubes of ice for a chilled delight and you’re all set for a bold whiskey experience.
Adding Some fruitiness
Fruit is often used in classic whiskey drinks like the whiskey sour, and it can also be used to add a twist to a dirty whiskey. The sweet-tart flavors of citrus fruits contrast beautifully with the smoky flavors of whiskey and vermouth, and can make for a truly unique beverage.
Add a few slices of oranges, lemons and limes to your dirty whiskey and let them sit for 10 minutes or so. This will add some serious fruitiness to the drink, with enough sugary sweetness to balance out the bitterness of the vermouth and cola. After a few minutes, stir the drink with your ice cubes and enjoy.
Enhancing Your Dirty Whiskey
For a bit of a different taste, a little smoky heat can be added to the mix. Try adding in a few dashes of chipotle powder or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. Both will add a sweet-spicy depth to the drink, while still allowing the smokiness of the whiskey to shine through.
For a refreshingly light option, add a bit of seltzer water. The carbonation will lighten the drink while adding some flavor and texture. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs to the drink. Rosemary, thyme and sage all pair perfectly with whiskey and can give your dirty whiskey an extra layer of complexity.
Experimenting with Other Liquors
If whiskey isn’t your thing, then you can also experiment with other dark liquors. Tequila is a great substitute for whiskey and can create some delicious and unique drinks. Dark rum and brandy are also great options, as they both bring some distinct sweetness to the mix.
No matter which liquor you choose, you can add some personality to your drinks with a few extra ingredients. Bitters, sugar syrup, and cola are the perfect combination to bring out the complexities of different types of spirits. Have some fun and get creative with your drinks, you never know what combinations you may come up with.
