Looking for a cocktail with a little attitude and a dose of Pacific Northwest spirit? The Whiskey Beer Shandy with Lime is a bracing, brightness-tinged riff on beer cocktails that’s at home in both dive bars and backyard gatherings. With its balancing act of oaky whiskey, crisp lager, and fresh lime, this shandy is refreshing, assertive, and easy to make.
Why This Shandy Stands Out
This isn’t your average shandy. Mixing a shot of whiskey with beer may sound daring, but the addition of fresh lime juice brings it all together. The Whiskey Beer Shandy with Lime revels in its rugged, no-nonsense roots—Pabst Blue Ribbon (PBR) is the preferred brew for authenticity, delivering a light, clean finish that lets the whiskey and lime take center stage. If PBR is unavailable, substitute any light American lager. Just remember: this is one cocktail that doesn’t play nice with Heineken.
🍺 Whiskey Beer Shandy with Lime Recipe
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- Ice cubes
- 2 oz whiskey (your favorite rye or bourbon)
- 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
- 10 oz Pabst Blue Ribbon (or similar light American lager)
- Lime wedges, for garnish
Preparation Steps
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes.
- Add whiskey and freshly squeezed lime juice.
- Shake vigorously until well-chilled.
- Strain into two old-fashioned glasses.
- Top each glass with 5 ounces of PBR (or preferred lager).
- Garnish with a lime wedge and serve immediately.
Pro Tip: For the truest dive-bar experience, use chilled PBR and go generous with the lime wedge.
⚡ Cocktail Customization & Tips
- Go Local: Try swapping in a local craft lager for a regional spin.
- Extra Crisp: Add extra lime juice for a tarter edge.
- Summertime Upgrade: Serve with plenty of ice for a sessionable sipper during hot weather.
- Crowd Pleaser: Make a pitcher by multiplying the ingredients and gently stirring before pouring over ice.
What Puts the “Shandy” in Shandy?
Traditionally, a shandy is beer cut with lemonade or citrus soda, popular for its effervescence and low alcohol. This version dials up the strength and flavor, courtesy of whiskey and fresh lime, for something equal parts simple and unforgettable.
Pour yourself a glass, toast to the grittier side of cocktail tradition, and enjoy a taste of the Pacific Northwest wherever you are. Cheers!
“Beer should be enjoyed with the right mixture of abandon and restraint.” -M.F.K. Fisher.