Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic20.5% ABV3 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderatestirred drink
Why: 3 ingredients, stirred drink, requires mixing glass, bar spoon
Best for: BBQ, Charcuterie, BBQ / Cookout
Ingredients & Tools
BaseModifierSweetener
- 2.0 ozGrenadineSweetener
- 2.0 ozSweet VermouthModifier
- 2.0 ozBlended WhiskeyBase
Tools:mixing glassbar spoon
How to Make It
- Stir with ice and strain into cocktail glass.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.
Best For
Food Pairings
Diet & Lifestyle
Gluten-FreeVeganVegetarian
Make it your way
Adjust this drink
Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the sugarCompare with drinks that use less estimated sugar per serve.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.
Swap notes
Base spiritBourbon is sweeter with vanilla and caramel; rye is spicier and drier; Scotch adds smoke and malt. Each changes the character significantly — stay within the same family where possible.SweetenerSimple syrup is neutral; honey adds floral warmth; agave is lighter and less cloying; grenadine adds pomegranate colour and fruit sweetness. Sweeteners vary in intensity — start with less than you think you need, then taste. Always rebalance with a little citrus if the drink feels flat after swapping.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a Opening Cocktail?
- The Opening Cocktail is a cocktail made with 3 ingredients, traditionally served in a Cocktail Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 20.5%. A standard serving contains approximately 390 calories.
- What does a Opening Cocktail taste like?
- Opening Cocktail has a flavour profile featuring Spice, Sweet, Herbal, Oak. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a Opening Cocktail?
- Opening Cocktail pairs well with BBQ, Charcuterie, Italian Cuisine. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a Opening Cocktail?
- The Opening Cocktail has an ABV of approximately 20.5%. That's approximately 2.05 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 390 calories, 42.9g sugar, 45.3g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a Opening Cocktail typically served?
- Opening Cocktail is a popular choice for BBQ / Cookout, Winter / Cozy. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a Opening Cocktail?
- If you enjoy Opening Cocktail, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
- Can I make a Opening Cocktail at home?
- Yes. The Opening Cocktail uses 3 ingredients, making it easy to prepare at home. You will need a Cocktail Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
- How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
- Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of Opening Cocktail with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.