Toronto

The Toronto cocktail is a sophisticated and slightly obscure drink that marries the bold flavors of Canadian whisky with the herbal complexity of Fernet Branca. Using Canadian Whisky is what makes it "Toronto", but many folks prefer the flavor of Rye whiskey. Whatever you choose, use a good one. This combination creates a rich, bittersweet profile that is both invigorating and smooth, thanks to the added depth from a touch of simple syrup and aromatic bitters. The result is a well-balanced cocktail that appeals to those who appreciate more nuanced, spirit-forward drinks.

The origins of the Toronto cocktail are somewhat murky, but it is believed to have emerged in the mid-20th century, possibly evolving from older whiskey-based concoctions. The inclusion of Fernet Branca, a bitter Italian amaro, gives the drink its distinctive character and sets it apart from other whiskey cocktails. This drink captures the essence of a classic yet adventurous cocktail experience and reflects the cosmopolitan spirit of its namesake city, offering a nod to both old-world traditions and new-world innovation.

This cocktail is alcoholic, so drink responsibly! Best served in a Coupe Glass, though any glass works!

Feel free to get creative with substitutions — try different fruit types, sugar substitutes, or liquor brands. Crafting cocktails should be fun!

Shopping List

This drink uses 4 core ingredients. Click any ingredient to find more drinks featuring it:

1. Rye Whiskey
2. Fernet Branca
3. Simple Syrup
4. Bitters