Smooth, robust, and full of character, bourbon is more than just a spirit; it's an experience. It's no surprise that it stars in many classic and contemporary mixed drinks. If you're looking to explore the world of bourbon cocktails, you're in the right place. Here, we delve into the best mixed drinks to make with bourbon, from timeless recipes to innovative twists.
But first, let's understand what makes bourbon such a versatile base for mixed drinks. Bourbon's sweet, warming notes, along with its elegant vanilla and oak flavors, make it mix well with a wide range of ingredients. From sour fruits to sweet liqueurs and bitters, bourbon's complex profile can handle it all. Now, let's dive into our list of the best bourbon drinks.
Timeless Bourbon Classics
No discussion about bourbon mixed drinks would be complete without these timeless classics. These cocktails have stood the test of time, and for good reason. They're balanced, delicious, and showcase bourbon's signature flavors.
The Old Fashioned
Arguably the most iconic bourbon cocktail, the Old Fashioned is simple yet profound. It's a perfect blend of bourbon, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus. The key to a great Old Fashioned is using quality ingredients and taking the time to muddle and stir.
Here's a simple recipe: in a mixing glass, muddle a sugar cube with a couple dashes of bitters. Add 2 oz of bourbon and a large ice cube. Stir until well-chilled. Express a citrus twist over the glass and drop it in. Serve neat in a rocks glass.
The Manhattan
The Manhattan is another classic that lets bourbon shine. It's a perfect balance of spirit, sweet vermouth, and bitters, made all the more elegant with a maraschino cherry garnish.
To make a Manhattan, combine 2 oz bourbon, 1 oz sweet vermouth, and 2-3 dashes of bitters in a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir until well-chilled. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a cherry.
Modern Bourbon Cocktails
As cocktail culture evolves, so do bourbon drinks. These modern recipes offer exciting new flavor profiles and techniques, pushing the boundaries of what a bourbon cocktail can be.
The Kentucky Derby
This contemporary classic combines bourbon with grapefruit and sage, creating a refreshing and invigorating twist on the traditional whiskey sour.
To make a Kentucky Derby, muddle a sage leaf in a cocktail shaker. Add 2 oz bourbon, 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice, 0.5 oz lemon juice, 0.5 oz simple syrup, and 0.5 oz Aperol. Shake with ice and double-strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a grapefruit twist.
The Sazerac's Modern Cousin
This updated version of the Sazerac trades absinthe and Peychaud's bitters for génépy and borghetti, creating a unique and complex bourbon drink that's well worth experimenting with.
For this modern Sazerac, rinse a chilled rocks glass with génépy. In a mixing glass, combine 2 oz bourbon, 0.5 oz génépy, 0.5 oz borghetti, 0.5 oz simple syrup, and 2 dashes of Angostura bitters. Add ice and stir until well-chilled. Strain into the prepared rocks glass. Garnish with an orange twist.
From timeless classics to modern innovations, bourbon's versatility is truly on display in these mixed drinks. Whether you're a bourbon veteran or just starting to explore the world of whiskey, there's always more to discover in the realm of bourbon cocktails. So, raise a glass, and let the pursuit of the perfect bourbon drink begin.