Summer has wound its way to a close, and it’s time to start looking towards the chillier camping seasons. And when the rain patters down on your tent and starting a campfire is an uphill battle, a well-chosen whiskey is more than a luxury; it’s an essential ally against the season’s drizzly gloom. There’s an unspoken camaraderie in sharing a flask around a campfire as the rain taps a rhythm on the leaves and you’ve finally disconnected from your inbox. It’s a moment that encapsulates the rugged spirit of camping, mirroring the wilderness around you.
And with the rainclouds becoming more consistent day by day in the overcast skies of the Pacific Northwest, we wanted to curate a short list of our favorite whiskey brands that have gotten us through the muddier trails Oregon has to offer.Because let’s be honest, the great outdoors is no place for pretentious sips; it calls for something hearty, easy to share, and, most importantly, flask-worthy.Whether mixing it with instant coffee at sunrise or sipping it straight under a canopy of stars, the whiskey you bring should complement the raw beauty of nature and the spirit of adventure.
Need some gear to spice up your fall-time toolkit? We got you covered there as well with our 2023 Fall Gear Guide.
Glendalough Double Barrel Irish Whiskey
Glendalough Double Barrel Irish Whiskey is the fall camping companion you didn’t know you needed. Aged first in American bourbon barrels and then in Spanish Oloroso Sherry casks, it delivers layers of vanilla, caramel, and dried fruit notes, mirroring the essence of a cozy autumn campfire. The Wicklow mountain water used to bring its ABV to a balanced 42% adds a unique touch of mineral complexity.
Versatility is key here. This whiskey offers a versatile palate for straight sipping or as the base for a robust campsite co*cktail. And the best part? Its high-quality profile doesn’t come with a hefty price tag. In essence, Glendalough Double Barrel enhances your fall camping experience by adding an extra layer of warmth and indulgence without breaking the bank.
Our Rainy-Camping co*cktail Using Glendalough Double Barrel Irish Whiskey
- 1 apple slice to add to the drink
- Splash of ginger ale (optional)
- 1 apple slice for garnish (optional)
- Sprig of rosemary for aromatic garnish (optional)
- 1/2 Tbs maple syrup, or to taste
- Dash of cinnamon
- 1 shot of Glendalough Double Barrel Irish Whiskey
Pour your shot of Glendalough Double Barrel into your go-to camping cup. Swap the traditional orange slice for an apple slice and give it a good squeeze. Add a dash of cinnamon and half a tablespoon of maple syrup to elevate the autumnal vibes.
Proper No. Twelve Whiskey
Taking its name from Dublin 12, Connor McGregor’s home turf, Proper No. Twelve is more than just a celebrity endorsem*nt; it’s a whiskey with character.
Don’t dismiss it as just another fighter’s side hustle; it’s a fantastic option to sip on after a long day hiking in the mist-filled woodlands. Its aroma offers an inviting blend of vanilla pod, floral barley, and a hint of sandalwood. The palate is well-rounded—orchard fruits and honey take the lead, backed up by a subtle yet refreshing white pepper kick. The finish is robust yet smooth, tinged with oak heat and a caramel drizzle.
Comparing it to Jatt Life Irish Whiskey, priced at $32.28 for a 70cl bottle with a 40% ABV, Proper No. Twelve holds its own. If you’re camping this fall and crave for a drink that matches the earthy aromas and the sound of rain on your tent, Proper No. Twelve might be the bottle to keep you company.
Our Rainy-Camping co*cktail Using Proper No. Twelve Whiskey
Upgrade your campfire drinks with the Autumn Spice Toddy, featuring Proper No. Twelve whiskeys. Perfect for those chilly fall evenings, this variation adds a touch of autumnal flair to the classic Hot Toddy. Swapping out honey for spiced apple syrup and enhancing it with a cinnamon stick, this co*cktail is warming and festive.
Autumn Spice
Toddy Ingredients
- Juice from 1/4 lemon
- 2oz Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey
- 1 Tablespoon Spiced Apple Syrup
- 1 Cinnamon Stick for stirring and flavor
- Slice of apple for garnish
How to Make the Autumn Spice Toddy
- Heat a small cup of water on your camp stove until hot but not boiling.
- Add the spiced apple syrup and stir until well blended.
- Squeeze in the juice from 1/4 lemon.
- Pour in 2oz of Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey.
- Add a cinnamon stick for stirring and enhanced flavor.
- Garnish with a slice of apple for that extra autumn touch.
Tincup American Whiskey
Based in Tin Cup, Colorado, the company combines high-rye bourbon and single malt whiskey in its blend. The nose opens with a blend of caramel, spices, and a subtle touch of orange peel; not overpowering but balanced. The palate is marked by a light rye spice and traces of sweet summer fruits with a hint of cinnamon. Despite its relatively low 84-proof, it maintains a level of approachability that doesn’t intimidate casual drinkers and lets you sip for longer around the fire without knocking you out.
The finish is short, with tapering spice and crisp green apples, offering a clean, if not particularly memorable, experience. What sets Tincup apart is its unique blend, thanks partly to a slight inclusion of single malt whiskey.
Retailing at $30, Tincup represents value for its price point, and its marketing and packaging are geared towards an outdoorsy aesthetic, which aligns with its easy-drinking nature. Overall, Tincup American Whiskey serves its purpose as a mild, sippable option, although its thin body could benefit from a higher proof to leave a lasting impression.
Our Rainy-Camping co*cktail Using Tincup American Whiskey
Let’s elevate the traditional Irish Coffee with a twist perfect for a cozy, rainy camp setting. Utilizing Tincup American Whiskey, which brings its unique blend of high-rye bourbon and single malt to the table, this revamped recipe offers a nuanced flavor profile.
Tincup Mountain Coffee:
- 5oz freshly brewed coffee (AeroPress recommended for optimal flavor)
- 1.5oz Tincup American Whiskey
- 1/2oz maple syrup (substitute for sugar for a woodsy note)
- A splash of heavy cream or milk froth
- A dash of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish
Directions:
- Brew your coffee using an AeroPress or your method of choice.
- In a heat-resistant mug, mix the brewed coffee and maple syrup until well blended.
- Add the Tincup American Whiskey and stir gently.
- Top off with a splash of heavy cream or milk foam.
- Garnish with a light dusting of ground cinnamon or nutmeg.
High West Campfire Whiskey
The first whiff gives away its character—soft, peaty notes complemented by sweet corn, light caramel, and a splash of toffee. On the palate, the initial hit of vanilla and barrel char is enhanced by the more subtle flavors like orange cream and salted caramel. The finish leaves a mellow but memorable impression with smoky, peaty nuances that linger but don’t overpower.
The real strength of High West Campfire lies in its blend, sourced from High West, MGP, and an undisclosed Scotch distillery. It’s not just the blend of flavors but also the blend of cultures—bourbon, rye, scotch—that make this whiskey stand out. While other brands like Kings County and Cedar Ridge experiment in this space, High West remains unparalleled in its unique concoction.
In summary, High West Campfire is a whiskey that knows its strengths and plays to them brilliantly. This harmonious blend dares to bridge gaps and defy norms, perfect for savoring on a day when the weather insists you slow down and appreciate the finer things.
Our Rainy-Camping co*cktail Using High West Campfire Whiskey
Autumn Ember
Ingredients:
- 2oz High West Campfire Whiskey
- 4oz Apple Cider
- Dash of Cinnamon
Equipment:
- Travel mug or any cup
- Measuring cup or – as we prefer to do – eyeball it
Instructions:
- Pour 2oz of High West Campfire Whiskey into a travel mug.
- Add 4oz of apple cider.
- Sprinkle a dash of cinnamon over the top.
- Stir with a stick, marshmallow skewer, or whatever’s handy!
Bear Fight American Single Malt Whiskey
This 90-proof, straw-colored whiskey, priced at $54, offers a complex profile. The nose promises malt, peat smoke, and a hint of green apple, revealing a Scotch-like character. Lighter notes of honey and grass balance a palate of fig and black currants. The finish delivers dry oak, leather, and a medium-length smokiness.
Although it’s a young whiskey, aged three years, its finish indicates a severe contender of American single malts. Released in June 2022, it leaves an impression that lingers like the fall rain it’s best enjoyed with. It is an intelligent choice for those exploring peated spirits without being overwhelmed. It is ideal for savoring during autumn camping trips where the rain provides the backdrop.
Our Rainy-Camping co*cktail Using Bear Fight American Single Malt Whiskey
The Bear Fight Campfire Toddy:
Ingredients:
- 2-ish oz of Bear Fight American Single Malt Whiskey
- Hot water
Steps:
- Heat water over the campfire.
- In a camp mug, eyeball a healthy shot of whiskey
- Drink the whiskey straight
- Chase it down with the hot water from the campfire
- ???
- Hair grows on your chest!
