Try ginger three ways in this simple whiskey cocktail.

Linda Xiao / Food Styling by Margaret Monroe Dickey / Prop Styling by Christina Daley

The combination of whiskey and ginger ale is a dive bar classic, but can often fall flat for those seeking a drink with a bit more flavor. Ginger and whiskey are a great match, but store-bought ginger ale is often too subtle to properly stand up to the caramel, spice, and vanilla notes of whiskey after being mixed.

Consider the Spicy Whiskey Ginger an ode to the original. By combining fresh muddled ginger with spicy-sweet ginger syrup and piquant ginger beer, this drink has enough heat and flavor to contrast, and not just complement, full-flavored whiskey.

A whiskey ginger is a classic well drink (also known as a rail drink) made from whiskey and ginger ale. It’s sometimes made with ginger beer, though ginger ale is the most classic.

There are many excellent whiskeys available, and since the category includes bourbon, rye, and American single malt, it can be challenging to choose. When selecting a whiskey for mixing, opt for something that is enjoyable neat but isn’t so high-end that you hesitate to mix it. Woodford Reserve’s Distiller’s Select is a favored choice due to its reasonable price and its sweet toffee and toast notes.

Our testers preferred making this cocktail with bourbon over other types of whiskey like rye. Bourbon, a predominantly corn-based whiskey, combines sweeter notes that blend well with the other ingredients and balance the ginger’s heat. The peppery aspects of rye whiskey might not complement the natural spice of ginger as well.

1 1/2 ounces whiskey

1/2 ounce ginger syrup

4 ounces ginger beer (such as Reed’s Strongest)

Muddle ginger slices in a rocks glass until crushed, about 30 seconds.

Add whiskey, ginger syrup, and large ice cube.

Top with ginger beer, and stir to combine. Serve immediately.