The Four Horsemen Shot is the ultimate drink for whiskey aficionados. It packs a real punch, too! I love a good whiskey and this recipe contains 4 different ones, each bringing a unique flavor profile that comes together to create a sensational experience that you have to try to believe.

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This powerful shot is popular when commemorating a 21st birthday that a lot of people consider a rite of passage. It contains 4 whiskeys all starting with the letter “J” and they represent the apocalyptic riders in the Book of Revelation. You’ll also hear this four horsemen drink recipe referred to as “The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.”
If you like easy shot recipes, you will love this Bazooka Joe Shot, Salted Nut Roll Shot, Royal Flush Shot and Sweet Tart Shot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s simple and complex: This is a simple recipe to make but it has a complex and sophisticated profile from the several varieties of whiskey.
- It’s perfect for whiskey drinkers: If you love whiskey, this is the drink for you. It celebrates how intense yet enjoyable a good whiskey can be!
- It’s a party favorite: This is popular at parties for its intensity, too. Serve it at your next one and it will certainly wow your guests.
Ingredients
The four horsemen ingredients simply consist of four varieties of whiskey to create the ultimate drink in a single shot. They each bring a different flavor to the table and you can find them all at any liquor store.

- Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey: This is a smooth whisky that has subtle notes of vanilla and caramel with an oaky finish. It’s one of the most popular whiskey varieties.
- Jim Beam Bourbon Whiskey: This warm bourbon whiskey has a similar flavor profile to Jack Daniel's, but it’s warm with a hint of spice, too.
- Johnny Walker Black: This is a popular scotch whiskey known for its smooth and smoky taste.
- Jameson Irish Whiskey: This whiskey is known for its balanced flavors and subtle floral notes. It’s a very mellow liquor!
See the recipe card below for exact ingredient amounts, nutritional information, and detailed instructions.
Variations
- Captain Morgan: Swap the Jameson whiskey for Captain Morgan rum to add a spiced flavor.
- Mezcal: Try Mezcal instead of Jim Beam for a smoky, sweet version.
- Jagermeister: Use Jagermeister in place of Johnny Walker black for an herbal, citrusy flavor.
- Southern Comfort: Try Southern Comfort instead of Jack Daniel's for a fruity twist.
How to Make A Four Horseman Shot
Preparing this four horsemen shot recipe is simple and fast. Once you add the whiskey to the shaker, you pour and drink!

Step 1: Add ice and ingredients. Fill the cocktail shaker halfway with ice and then add all 4 of the whiskeys.

Step 2: Shake and pour. Give it a good shake and strain it into the shot glass. Bottoms up!
Recipe Tips
- Pour straight: Instead of shaking them over ice, pour them straight into the shot glass. This allows you to get a more distinct flavor from each type of whiskey.
- Don’t skimp on quality: Use the good stuff! Knock-off versions of these whiskeys will make a difference in flavor. Name brands, in this case, will give you authenticity.
- Try a beer chaser: To help with the punch of the shot, consider a mellow beer like a light lager as a chaser after you take a four horsemen shot.
- Storage directions: Even though this shot is best made on demand, feel free to make a larger batch and store it in a pitcher in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Chilled drinks go down smoother, too.
If you love recipes like this whiskey recipe, you may also enjoy these Bourbon Meatballs.
Serving Suggestions
- Tasty dips like warm corn dip and salsa pesto are great appetizers to serve for a party with this drink recipe.
- BBQ chicken sliders and salmon pizza are great hot appetizers or snacks to enjoy with a four horsemen shot.
- Keep it fancy and make this creamy shrimp pasta salad!

More Delicious Drink Recipes
Do you like making drinks at home? Here are some more drink recipes you may also like to try.
If you try this recipe and love it please leave a star rating in the recipe card below or even better, drop a review in the comment section, I always appreciate your feedback. Be sure to follow along with me on Facebook, Pinterest, and YouTube for more easy recipes!

Four Horseman Shot
Ingredients
- ½ ounce Jack Daniels Tennessee Whiskey
- ½ ounce Jim Beam Bourbon Whiskey
- ½ ounce Johnny Walker Black
- ½ ounce Jameson Irish Whiskey
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
- Pour all ingredients in and shake until chilled.
- Strain into a shot glass.
Notes
- Make a large batch ahead in a pitcher and store it in your refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving.
- Use high-quality whiskey for a smoother and better-tasting shot. Don’t skimp and buy the cheap stuff!
- Add a chaser like a light lager beer to make the experience less intense but still taste good!
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