A well-balanced and timeless classic, the Up to Date cocktail is a smooth blend of whiskey, sweet vermouth, Grand Marnier, and bitters. It’s rich, slightly citrusy, and just the right amount of complex—perfect for slow sipping. I’ve made this cocktail countless times, and it never fails to impress. Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or serving it at a gathering, this drink is always a hit.
Up to Date
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) whiskey (rye or bourbon work best)
- 1 oz (30ml) sweet vermouth
- 1/4 oz (7.5ml) Grand Marnier (or another orange liqueur)
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Lemon peel (for garnish)
Glassware: A chilled Old Fashioned glass is ideal, but a Coupe glass works well if you prefer a more elegant presentation.
How to Make It
- Fill a mixing glass with ice, then add the whiskey, sweet vermouth, Grand Marnier, and bitters.
- Stir for about 30 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled Old Fashioned glass over fresh ice.
- Twist the lemon peel over the drink to release its oils, then drop it in as a garnish.
Tip: Stirring (rather than shaking) keeps the drink silky smooth without too much dilution.
Flavor Profile
This cocktail is beautifully balanced. The warm spice from the whiskey, the herbal sweetness of vermouth, and the citrusy depth of Grand Marnier come together effortlessly. The bitters round everything out, adding just a touch of complexity.
I love how this drink feels both classic and refined, yet incredibly easy to make. It’s one of my favorite cocktails for a cool evening—like a cozy sweater in a glass.
Food Pairings
The Up to Date pairs wonderfully with rich, savory, and slightly smoky dishes. Here are a few great options:
- Charcuterie Board: Salty cured meats and aged cheeses complement the whiskey’s warmth.
- Grilled Steak: The deep, caramelized flavors of a steak match beautifully with the drink’s boldness.
- Dark Chocolate Desserts: The bittersweet chocolate enhances the cocktail’s citrus and spice notes.
Variations & Customizations
Want to switch things up? Try these tweaks:
- Smoky Date: Use a peaty Scotch instead of rye for a deeper, smoky twist.
- Modern Date: Swap rye for bourbon and add a dash of chocolate bitters for a richer, slightly sweeter take.
- Citrus Date: Add a splash of fresh orange juice and use triple sec instead of Grand Marnier for a brighter, fruitier version.
Non-Alcoholic Version: Use a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative, alcohol-free vermouth, and a drop of orange bitters for a similar flavor profile without the alcohol.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Batch It for a Party: Multiply the ingredients by the number of servings and mix everything in a pitcher ahead of time. Keep it chilled, and stir with ice just before serving.
- Storage: Since this is a spirit-forward cocktail with no perishable ingredients, you can store a pre-mixed batch (without ice) in the fridge for a few days. Just give it a good stir before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using low-quality whiskey: Since this cocktail is simple, the whiskey plays a big role. Choose a good-quality rye or bourbon.
- Skipping the lemon peel garnish: The citrus oils bring out the drink’s best flavors—don’t skip this step!
- Over-diluting: Stir just until chilled (about 30 seconds). Over-stirring can water down the flavors.
Final Thoughts
The Up to Date is a timeless classic that’s easy to make yet full of depth. Whether you’re new to whiskey cocktails or a seasoned drinker, this one is worth adding to your repertoire.
Give it a try, and let me know how you like it! 🍸
