Planning a dinner party? You’ve likely considered the menu by now and which drinks to pour during your meal. But what happens after dessert? When the final course is served and the conversation lingers, an after dinner cocktail is an excellent accompaniment. It’s a time to savour the final moments of a meal and marvel at the host’s exceptional efforts.
A post-dinner drink, or digestif, is not only a delicious end to an evening but can also aid digestion – what better excuse to open the drinks cabinet. From sweet cocktails to luxurious, smooth serves, we’ve delved into the best after dinner cocktails inspired by The Glenlivet’s signature expressions.
Read on to discover how to elevate your dinner party experience with the finest digestifs and post-dinner cocktails.
Old Fashioned
An Old Fashioned is a timeless after dinner cocktail and a popular night cap for many. The original recipe calls for whisky, sugar and aromatic bitters. But feel free to add your own twist that fits the theme of your dinner. Try our Old Fashioned with honey for extra sweetness or serve our Chocolate Old Fashioned with an accompanying dessert.
New Fashioned
Out with the old, in with the New Fashioned. Surprise guests with this modern twist on a classic cocktail. The simple recipe combines the richness of orange zest, bitters and simple syrup with The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve to create a sensual harmony of fresh flavours.
Scotch on the Rocks
Sometimes the simplest pleasures bring the greatest satisfaction. Particularly after a luxurious meal. The Glenlivet 12 Year Old, poured over large ice cubes, delivers an exceptional night cap to end the evening on. Savour the smoothness with each sip of your Whisky on the Rocks. The perfect digestif for any meal as well as a whisky pairing dinner.
Salted Caramel Single Malt
Save dessert for cocktail hour with this salted caramel whisky cocktail. The luscious blend of The Glenlivet 14 Year Old scotch with caramel liqueur, bitters and a pinch of sea salt is an exceptional drinking experience. The contrast of flavours complement the single malt’s smooth, spiced sweetness in every sip.
Auld Alliance
The Auld Alliance pays homage to both Scotland and France, bringing together two powerful yet complimentary liquids. The Glenlivet 18 Year Old whisky adds complexity and depth, elevated by the sweetness of the French Sauternes wine. An exceptional whisky digestif.
New York Sour
A classic cocktail for a classic evening of dinner and great conversation. The New York Sour is a showstopper of a drink, offering a delightful balance of tartness and richness. The traditional whisky sour trio of scotch, lemon and simple syrup is topped with a light red wine float for an unconventional yet delicious combination.
Spiced Spey Coffee
Swap your Espresso Martini for something a little spicier with our take on a whisky coffee cocktail. The Spiced Spey Coffee is a creamy, warming cocktail made with complex flavours. The Glenlivet 12 Year Old matches smooth sweetness with a dash of liquid chocolate, whilst a pinch of cayenne pepper keeps things heated.
Vieux Carré
A New Orleans’ original, the Vieux Carré is a classic whisky recipe that works wonderfully after dinner with friends. Somewhat similar to a Manhattan or Old Fashioned, this drink combines 18 Year Old single malt with cognac, sweet vermouth and bitters for a smoky yet smooth serve.
Maple Whisky Sour
End your night on a sweet note with the Maple Whisky Sour. This sugary twist on a traditional sour cocktail adds a dash of rich maple syrup that balances the zest of fresh lemon. It’s a satisfyingly sweet finale for any dinner party.
Discover more ways to enjoy The Glenlivet with our collection of whisky cocktail recipes including our top celebratory drinks. You can also find more inspiration for your events and gatherings from hosting a family party to our guide for outdoor garden dinners.
