As the unmistakable thwack of tennis balls returns to SW19, and strawberries and cream make their seasonal comeback, there’s another elegant companion we invite you to enjoy alongside the world’s most prestigious Grand Slam: a fine glass of whisky.
From Monday, June 30 to Sunday, July 13, 2025, Wimbledon will once again captivate global audiences with its iconic grass courts, timeless traditions, and edge-of-your-seat drama. But while tennis fans gather for two weeks of athletic excellence, connoisseurs know that this is also the perfect time to indulge in a dram of something truly special.
The Quiet Elegance of a Dram & a Rally
Wimbledon and whisky share more in common than meets the eye:
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Tradition – Both have roots steeped in history. Wimbledon has been played since 1877, while Scotch whisky’s heritage goes back centuries. Whether it’s Centre Court or a Speyside cask, both are testaments to patience, precision, and passion.
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Ritual – Just as a tennis match starts with a ceremonial coin toss and white attire, pouring a dram is its own ritual—cut crystal glass, a measured pour, perhaps a drop of water to open up the flavour.
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Craftsmanship – Every champion at Wimbledon, like every bottle of whisky, is the result of years of meticulous preparation. Maturation for one; muscle memory for the other.
What to Sip While You Serve (or Spectate)
Here are a few tennis-inspired cocktails to elevate your Wimbledon watching experience:
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🎾 Whisky Highball with Elderflower & Cucumber
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Top with chilled soda water
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Add 15 ml elderflower cordial and a few slices of cucumber
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Garnish with cucumber ribbon
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Why it works: Friendlier in summer heat—light, floral, and easy-drinking
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🎾 Whisky Spritz Royale
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40 ml of Ardbeg Homecoming Distillery Exclusive 56.1%
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60 ml French sparkling wine or Prosecco
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10 ml St.‑Germain elderflower liqueur
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Serve in a flute, garnish with mint
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Why it works: Elevated yet simple - sparkle meets savour
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🎾 Iced Honey‑Ginger Whisky Smash
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50 ml of Aberfeldy 22 Year Old Distillery Centre 25th Anniversary 53.1%
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15 ml honey syrup (1:1 honey & water)
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3 lime wedges + a few mint leaves
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Top with crushed ice, garnish with crystallised ginger
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Why it works: Fresh and zingy, plays beautifully with green attire.
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Photo courtesy of Shep McAllister
Wimbledon Evenings, Whisky Nights
Whether you're watching under the soft glow of a summer sunset or catching the highlights later, there’s something magical about winding down with a glass in hand. Let Wimbledon remind you that sometimes, the most refined pleasures come from combining timeless passions.
So this summer, raise your glass to sport, to spirit, and to the simple joy of savouring both.
