Algonquin Whiskey Cocktail

Pro tips

• Chill your mixing glass or cocktail shaker with ice before combining ingredients to ensure the drink stays cold without over-dilution.
• Stir gently for 10–15 seconds rather than shaking; this prevents the pineapple juice from becoming too aerated and bitter.
• Use fresh pineapple juice within a day of opening for the brightest flavor; aged or oxidized juice will taste flat.

Substitutions

• Bourbon or rye whiskey → blended whiskey (will add spice and body; adjust to taste)
• Dry vermouth → French vermouth (slightly drier; use same ratio)

Equipment

cocktail shaker or mixing glass · jigger · cocktail strainer · bar spoon

What type of whiskey works best for an Algonquin cocktail?

Blended whiskey is traditional, as in the original recipe. You can use bourbon or rye for a spicier profile, but blended whiskey gives the smoothest, most balanced result.

Should I use fresh pineapple juice or bottled?

Fresh pineapple juice will give the brightest flavor, but quality bottled juice (not from concentrate) works well and is more convenient.

Do I need to chill the glass?

Chilling the glass beforehand keeps the cocktail colder longer and improves the drinking experience. Fill it with ice while you prepare the drink.

Can I batch this cocktail?

Yes. Multiply the ingredients by the number of servings, mix in a pitcher, and chill. Stir well before serving over fresh ice.

What's the best way to strain this drink?

Use a cocktail strainer (Hawthorne or julep) over a jigger to control pour and prevent ice and pulp from entering the glass.