Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic22.7% ABV3 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderatestirred drink
Why: 3 ingredients, stirred drink, requires mixing glass, bar spoon
Best for: BBQ, Steak, Seafood Dinner
Ingredients & Tools
BaseModifierCitrus
- 2.0 ozBlended WhiskeyBase
- 1 dashBittersModifier
- 2.0 ozLemon JuiceCitrus
Tools:mixing glassbar spoon
How to Make It
- Stir with ice and strain in 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 caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.Match it with foodFind food pairings that complement the flavors in this drink.
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.CitrusLime can replace lemon juice in a pinch but it tastes more floral and slightly sweeter, so the drink will taste different. Reduce any syrup by a small amount if swapping. Orange juice is a softer, less acidic option — use it when you want a rounder, less sharp result.BittersAromatic bitters (like Angostura) add spice, clove and cinnamon warmth. Orange bitters are brighter and more citrus-forward. Peychaud's is lighter and more floral. Swapping between them changes the top-note character — use the same quantity and taste, adjusting by drops.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a Palmer Cocktail?
- The Palmer Cocktail is a cocktail made with 3 ingredients, traditionally served in a Cocktail Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 22.7%. A standard serving contains approximately 161 calories.
- What does a Palmer Cocktail taste like?
- Palmer Cocktail has a flavour profile featuring Lemon, Citrus, Oak, Spice. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a Palmer Cocktail?
- Palmer Cocktail pairs well with BBQ, Steak. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a Palmer Cocktail?
- The Palmer Cocktail has an ABV of approximately 22.7%. That's approximately 1.52 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 161 calories, 1.5g sugar, 4.1g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a Palmer Cocktail typically served?
- Palmer Cocktail is a popular choice for Seafood Dinner, Aperitif. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a Palmer Cocktail?
- If you enjoy Palmer 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 Palmer Cocktail at home?
- Yes. The Palmer 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 Palmer 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.