A cocktail with a name like Satan’s Whiskers has to have a little mischief in it. This Prohibition-era classic is a smooth, citrusy mix of gin, vermouth, and orange liqueur, with just a hint of bitters to keep things interesting. It’s the kind of drink that feels both sophisticated and playful, making it perfect for a relaxed evening or a fancy get-together. I’ve made this one more times than I can count, and it never fails to impress. Let’s shake one up!
Satan's Whiskers
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Ingredients
- 1 oz (30ml) gin
- 1 oz (30ml) sweet vermouth
- 1 oz (30ml) dry vermouth
- 1 oz (30ml) fresh orange juice
- 1/2 oz (15ml) orange liqueur (like Grand Marnier or Cointreau)
- A dash of orange bitters
- Ice
- Orange twist, for garnish
How to Make It
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the gin, sweet vermouth, dry vermouth, orange juice, orange liqueur, and orange bitters.
- Shake well until the outside of the shaker feels cold, about 15 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass or a rocks glass with fresh ice.
- Garnish with an orange twist, and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Satan’s Whiskers
- Use fresh orange juice—it makes a huge difference in flavor. Bottled juice just doesn’t have the same brightness.
- Chill your glass before pouring the drink in. A few minutes in the freezer does the trick.
- Balance the vermouths to your taste. If you prefer a slightly drier cocktail, add just a little less sweet vermouth.
Make-Ahead & Storage
If you’re mixing for a party, you can batch this cocktail ahead of time. Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need, stir everything together in a pitcher, and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, shake individual portions with ice and strain into glasses.
Food Pairings
The citrusy, herbal notes in Satan’s Whiskers pair beautifully with:
- Spicy tapas – Think patatas bravas or chorizo bites. The cocktail’s sweetness balances the heat.
- Grilled seafood – Shrimp, scallops, or calamari all work well with the bright citrus flavors.
- Dark chocolate desserts – The bittersweet richness of chocolate complements the drink’s herbal depth.
Variations to Try
Curled Satan’s Whiskers
- Swap the orange liqueur for orange bitters for a slightly more bitter, complex version.
Heaven’s Whiskers
- Replace gin with vodka for a smoother, more neutral take.
Purgatory’s Whiskers
- Add a splash of grapefruit juice for a tangy twist.
Angel’s Whiskers
- Swap sweet vermouth for Aperol for a more bitter-sweet profile.
Non-Alcoholic Version
- Mix orange juice, tonic water, and a dash of orange bitters for a refreshing, booze-free option.
FAQs
Why is it called Satan’s Whiskers?
No one knows for sure, but the name likely comes from the drink’s bold, slightly mischievous kick.
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Yes! Just mix everything in a pitcher, chill, and shake individual servings with ice before serving.
Do I have to use both sweet and dry vermouth?
For the best balance, yes. The combination gives the drink its signature depth.
What’s the best garnish?
An orange twist is classic, adding just the right amount of aroma and elegance.
How do I know if I made it right?
A good Satan’s Whiskers should be citrusy, slightly herbal, and perfectly balanced. If it makes you take another sip right away, you nailed it.
This cocktail is one of my favorites for its smooth yet complex flavor. Whether you’re making it for yourself or sharing with friends, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Cheers! 🍸
