Stiletto Whiskey & Amaretto Cocktail

A smooth balance of whiskey, amaretto, and fresh lemon juice, the Stiletto Whiskey & Amaretto Cocktail is a simple mixed drink with rich nutty sweetness and a bright citrus edge. Served over ice in a whisky tumbler and finished with a lemon wheel, it’s an easy yet refined choice for fans of whiskey sours and almond‑forward flavors.

Stiletto Recipe Image

What You’ll Need

Ingredients

  • Whiskey — bold base with oak and vanilla depth.
  • Amaretto — sweet almond liqueur that softens the whiskey.
  • Lemon juice — fresh acidity for balance.
  • Lemon wheel — garnish for aroma and presentation.

Equipment

  • Whisky tumbler (old‑fashioned glass)
  • Bar spoon
  • Jigger
  • Ice — fresh cubes

Why This Drink Works

  • Combines whiskey’s warmth with amaretto’s nutty sweetness.
  • Balanced by lemon juice for a whiskey sour–style profile.
  • Simple to build directly in the glass — no shaker required.
  • Elegant but approachable for both whiskey lovers and casual drinkers.

Substitutions & Variations

  • Whiskey → Bourbon: Sweeter, rounder finish.
  • Whiskey → Rye: Adds spice and a drier bite.
  • Amaretto → Hazelnut liqueur (Frangelico): Different nut profile with toasted notes.
  • Lemon juice → Lime juice: Brighter, slightly sharper acidity.
  • Build over crushed ice: Lighter dilution and a more refreshing style.

Helpful Tips

  • If you can, use fresh citrus — bottled juice flattens the drink.
  • Express the lemon wheel garnish lightly over the glass before dropping it in.
  • For batching: multiply ingredients ×N, add 20–25% cold water, chill for 2–4 hours, and serve over fresh ice with garnish.
  • Keep proportions tight — too much amaretto can overwhelm the balance.
  • Works as a dinner‑party sipper; pair with roasted nuts or charcuterie.

Stiletto Recipe

Type of Glass

Whisky Tumbler

Ingredients

  • 3/4 oz.
  • 1 1/2 oz.
  • 3/4 oz.

Directions

  1. Fill a whisky tumbler with fresh ice cubes.
  2. Pour in whiskey, amaretto, and fresh lemon juice.
  3. Stir gently to combine and chill.
  4. Garnish with a lemon wheel and serve.

The Stiletto is a sharp yet smooth classic—simple to build, memorable to sip, and always balanced between warmth and brightness.