The Presbyterian cocktail is one of those simple yet satisfying drinks that feels like an old friend—reliable, refreshing, and always welcome. It’s a mix of whiskey, ginger ale, and soda water that balances bold flavors with a bubbly lift. Whether you’re relaxing on a warm afternoon or winding down in the evening, this classic cocktail is an easy go-to. Let me show you how to make it perfectly every time!
Presbyterian
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60 ml) whiskey (rye, bourbon, or Scotch—your choice!)
- 2 oz (60 ml) ginger ale
- 2 oz (60 ml) soda water
- Ice cubes
- Lemon twist (for garnish)
For the best results, serve this in a highball glass or a Collins glass to let those bubbles shine.
Prep Time & Servings
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 1 cocktail
Method
- Fill a highball glass with ice cubes all the way to the top. This keeps the drink cold and bubbly.
- Pour in 2 oz (60 ml) of whiskey over the ice. Use rye for a spicy kick, bourbon for a sweeter touch, or Scotch for a smoky twist.
- Add 2 oz (60 ml) of ginger ale and 2 oz (60 ml) of soda water to the glass. The equal parts make for a perfectly balanced drink.
- Stir gently with a spoon—just enough to mix without losing too much fizz.
- Top it off with a lemon twist for a bright, citrusy aroma. It’s the finishing touch that ties everything together.
Storage Tips
Since this cocktail is mixed fresh, it’s best enjoyed immediately. But if you’re planning for a party, you can pre-mix the whiskey, ginger ale, and soda water in a large pitcher (keeping the 1:1:1 ratio) and store it in the fridge. Just add ice and garnish when serving.
Serving Suggestions
The Presbyterian is as versatile as it is refreshing. Pair it with:
- Barbecue ribs: The ginger ale’s spice and whiskey’s warmth balance the smoky, saucy flavors.
- Roasted chicken: A classic pairing that lets the cocktail’s bubbles cleanse your palate.
- Apple pie: The whiskey and ginger flavors complement the warm spices of a slice of pie beautifully.
I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve enjoyed this cocktail with a plate of barbecue—it’s a match made in heaven.
Tips for Success
- Pick your ginger ale wisely: A spicier ginger ale adds a nice zing, while a milder one keeps it smooth.
- Experiment with whiskey types: You’ll be surprised how much the drink changes with bourbon’s sweetness or Scotch’s smokiness.
- Don’t skip the lemon twist: It’s a small step, but it makes the drink feel polished and adds a burst of fresh aroma.
Variations to Try
Here are a few fun twists on the classic Presbyterian:
Spicy Presbyterian
- Ingredients: Bourbon, spicy ginger beer, soda water, lime wedge
- Method: Replace ginger ale with ginger beer for a bold kick, and garnish with a lime wedge for extra zest.
Scotch Presbyterian
- Ingredients: Scotch whisky, ginger ale, soda water, orange twist
- Method: Swap in Scotch whisky for a smoky edge, and finish with an orange twist instead of lemon.
Honey Presbyterian
- Ingredients: Whiskey, ginger ale, soda water, honey syrup
- Method: Stir in a teaspoon of honey syrup for a touch of sweetness, and garnish with a lemon twist.
Virgin Presbyterian (Non-Alcoholic)
- Ingredients: Ginger ale, soda water, lemon twist
- Method**: Mix equal parts ginger ale and soda water, then garnish with a lemon twist for a refreshing mocktail.
Common Questions
Can I use any whiskey for a Presbyterian?
Absolutely! Rye, bourbon, or Scotch all work well—it just depends on your personal taste.
How do I make it less sweet?
Swap regular ginger ale for a diet version or a naturally sweetened one to cut back on sugar.
Can I make this in a big batch for a party?
You bet! Just multiply the ingredients by the number of guests, mix in a pitcher, and serve over ice.
What’s the secret to a perfectly balanced Presbyterian?
The key is sticking to the 1:1:1 ratio for whiskey, ginger ale, and soda water. It keeps the flavors in harmony.
Final Thoughts
The Presbyterian is proof that sometimes simple really is best. With just a few ingredients, you get a drink that’s refreshing, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re sipping it solo or mixing up a batch for friends, this cocktail is always a winner. Give it a try and make it your own—you might just find your new favorite drink!
