Great Jones Distilling Co. is Manhattan’s first whiskey distillery since Prohibition ended in 1933, and they have set out to challenge the whisky is for winter convention with three cocktails designed for summer sipping. The distillery’s bartenders created three low-proof and fruit-forward combinations perfect for summer months, and which showcase whiskey’s versatility beyond its traditional winter associations.
Ice Pick: Crisp Summer Whiskey Cocktail with Dessert Wine
The Ice Pick combines Great Jones’ wheated bourbon with dessert wine and fresh lemon juice. This lower-proof cocktail offers a crisp, wine-forward taste with subtle bourbon warmth. The dessert wine adds sweetness while the lemon provides acidity that cuts through summer heat.
Ingredients: 1.5 oz wheated bourbon, 1.5 oz dessert wine, 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice, lemon peel garnish
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READ THE STORYMethod: Stir ingredients over ice, strain into chilled glass, express lemon oils over drink
The combination works well for rooftop bars or outdoor dining where lighter cocktails suit the setting better than full-strength spirits.
Empire State Cobbler: Summer Whiskey Drink with Apple Notes
The Empire State Cobbler pairs straight bourbon with apple cider, creating an unexpected seasonal crossover. Orgeat syrup adds almond sweetness while fresh lemon juice provides balance.
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Ingredients: 2 oz straight bourbon, 1 oz apple cider, 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice, 0.5 oz orgeat syrup, nutmeg, dehydrated apple slice
Method: Shake liquid ingredients with ice, strain over fresh ice in double old fashioned glass, garnish with nutmeg and apple
Apple cider’s refreshing familiarity makes this approachable for whiskey newcomers. The cobbler format works well for casual gatherings or barbecues where guests want something substantial but not overwhelming.
Jones Julep: Blackberry Whiskey Cocktail
The Jones Julep reimagines the classic mint julep with blackberries and spiced honey syrup. Fresh mint and muddled berries create a crisp and refreshing but fruit-forward base, while bourbon provides structure. The combination delivers familiar julep refreshment with modern fruit flavors.
Ingredients: 2 oz straight bourbon, 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice, 0.75 oz spiced honey syrup, mint leaves, blackberries, mint sprig garnish
Method: Muddle blackberries and mint, add remaining ingredients, shake with ice and strain over ice in your favourite glass.
The drink tastes like summer berry dessert with herbal mint and honey complexity. Crushed ice and the julep format make this ideal for outdoor events or Kentucky Derby parties extended into summer months.
These cocktails demonstrate whiskey’s adaptability beyond cold-weather drinking. The key lies in balancing whiskey’s inherent warmth with cooling elements like ice, citrus, and lighter mixers. As craft distilleries continue expanding across America, expect more seasonal experimentation that challenges traditional spirit categorizations.
