A Fresh Take on the Modern Whiskey Cocktail
As cannabis-infused beverages continue to gain popularity, the cannabis-whiskey cocktail stands out for its rich flavor and approachable sophistication. When prepared responsibly, it brings together the warmth of aged bourbon, the brightness of citrus, and the subtle calm of a carefully measured THC tincture. The following recipe offers an easy, low-dose way to explore this growing trend at home.
Ingredients (1 serving)
- 2 oz (60 mL) bourbon or rye whiskey
- ¾ oz (22 mL) fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz (15 mL) pure maple syrup
- 2–3 dashes aromatic bitters
- Cannabis tincture, enough for 2.5 mg THC per drink
- Ice (for shaking and serving)
- Optional: ½ oz (15 mL) egg white for a classic frothy texture
- Orange peel for garnish
Dosing Guide
For safety and consistency, use a lab-tested tincture labeled with potency (e.g., “10 mg THC per mL”). To achieve roughly 2.5 mg THC, measure 0.25 mL of tincture. Start with a low dose and wait at least two hours before considering another serving, as cannabis absorption through alcohol is slower than inhalation.
Method
- Prepare the glass. Chill a rocks glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water.
- Combine ingredients. In a shaker, add the whiskey, lemon juice, maple syrup, bitters, and the measured tincture. If using egg white, add it now.
- Shake well.
- With egg white: Shake once without ice (10 seconds) to create foam, then add ice and shake another 10 seconds.
- Without egg white: Shake hard with ice for 10–12 seconds until chilled.
- Strain. Empty the glass, add a fresh ice cube, and strain the cocktail over it.
- Garnish. Express the orange peel over the surface and drop it into the glass.
Why It Works
Cannabinoids dissolve effectively in alcohol, allowing THC tinctures to blend evenly without separating. Decarboxylated tinctures deliver mild euphoria, while whiskey’s caramel and vanilla undertones balance the earthy notes of cannabis. Lemon and maple round out the drink with sweet-tart depth, and bitters add a touch of complexity that complements the spirit’s warmth.
Serving and Safety Tips
This recipe is designed to be flavor-forward yet mindful. Always use tinctures that have been third-party tested for purity and potency. Store them clearly labeled and away from children and pets. Because alcohol and cannabis can amplify one another’s effects, limit yourself to one cocktail per sitting, stay hydrated, and avoid driving or operating machinery afterward.
A Final Sip
The Maple Citrus Cannabis-Whiskey Sour shows how infusion can elevate the cocktail experience without sacrificing craft or caution. It’s a balanced drink for those who appreciate whiskey’s tradition and want to explore the next evolution of modern mixology—where flavor, science, and wellness meet responsibly in a single glass.
Looking to enjoy more culinary infusions? Read this hosting guide for the ultimate cananbis bbq summer.