SONGS AND SIPS WITH
DILLON COOPER
Music producer, artist and New York native Dillon Cooper knows the best things take time; time to hone skills and craft something beautiful.
Dillon and Master Blender Sandy Hyslop explored the similarities of whisky and music, and the importance of mixing things up to discover what works for your palate. We asked Dillon to explore the similarities once more by matching his favourite Chivas cocktails to iconic tracks.
For the ultimate experience, listen to Dillon’s selections on Spotify now, make some drinks for friends and get everyone together for a Chivas listening party.
Extra Ginger – Dance The Night Away by Cream
“I chose the classic Cream tune Dance the Night Away to pair up with the Extra Ginger for a few reasons.
Firstly, the taste of ginger is one of my absolute favourites – but matched with the perfect amount of sweetness from the honeyed notes used within the Chivas Extra Bourbon Cask, it makes it even more enjoyable.
Secondly, how could I resist the pun of the legendary Bassist of Cream, Ginger Baker, who gets super groovy throughout this track with his flawless basslines? It’s a match made in heaven.”
Extra Mint Daiquiri: U Send Me Swingin’ by Mint Condition
“A Sweet Gentle Sway is a recurring lyric throughout this Mint Condition classic.
The vibe of this song is relaxed, smooth and fresh, coupled by an embracing depth and warmth brought on by the vocal harmonies and deep grooves from the synth bass.
Coincidentally, it’s the way I would best describe the Extra Mint Daiquiri. From the fresh mint and subtle tang of the lime juice to the deep and defined flavours from the Angostura bitters and the warm Chivas Extra Rum cask, it’s perfect.
I’m a Mojito lover and this absolutely does the trick for me every time.”
Chivas Sour: The Sun by Maroon 5
“The Sun by Maroon 5 has been one of my favourite tracks since I was a pre-teen.
It’s a song reminiscing about life and always reminds me of hot summer evenings, sitting on the porch.
As I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned there sometimes is no better feeling than sitting outside in the summer, sipping a whisky sour and just appreciating life – past and present. It’s one of my favourite go-to drinks for any occasion, but accompanied with this track – it makes it even better.”
Extra Manhattan: Come Fly With Me by Frank Sinatra
“As a born-and-bred New Yorker, the Manhattan cocktail is a staple and namesake of the town. This drink makes me think of old New York: fine tailored suits, class and elegance. Come Fly with Me, sung by Frank Sinatra, always brings me to that headspace.
The Chivas Extra American Rye Cask gives that rich authentic flavour that is unparalleled – and I believe it should be on the shelf of any true gentleman. Hearing this song, whilst this drink is in your hand, will make you want to put on a suit and get a table at the Copacabana. You’ll feel like an absolute goodfella!”
Chivas Colada Shake: Leggo Beast by Steel Pulse
“Steel Pulse is one of the best reggae groups of all time and Leggo Beast is one of my favourite tracks from start to finish. It’s one of those tunes that you can close your eyes and teleport to another space and time, just off pure vibes, melody and basslines.
Drinking a Colada always makes me think of being in the Caribbean; jerk chicken on a grill, beaches and playing football/soccer in the sand.
The Chivas XV, paired with the pineapple and coconut flavours blended together to create this amazing take on a classic Pina Colada, was exactly the upgrade needed to take this drink to Beast Mode status. I personally haven’t paired my Pina Colada with rum since. The only downside is that you might want to go on vacation 30 seconds in to your first sip and pressing play!”