Serves: 1

Did you know that whisky sales are on the up? And what's interesting is that, increasingly, far from being a drink exclusively for beardy old men (although these chaps do, of course, enjoy the odd dram), today's whisky drinkers are getting younger and are also far more likely to be female.

While good malt whisky is traditionally enjoyed on its own (or with a teeny drop of water), whisky is also a good match for many foods (including cheese, salmon, spicy dishes and chocolate) and is also a great base for cocktails. And not just any old cocktails...

The sweet and fruity flavours of Chivas Regal 12, for instance, are currently being paired with beers, as the beer cocktail makes itself known in smart bars around town to celebrate London Cocktail Week. And while this one might not have the catchy title of my favourite beer brew so far – the Lagerita – who's to say that the East India Sunset won't take the place of its tequila-based cousin?

Have you tried a beer cocktail? Were you convinced?

East India Sunset - serves 1

Ingredients

• 25ml Chivas Regal 12
• 15ml vanilla syrup
• 15ml lemon juice
• Cobra beer
• Orange zest

Method

1. Mix the Chivas, syrup and lemon juice together in a glass, top up with Cobra beer and shake together. Pour over ice and garnish with orange zest.
2. Relax...