Whiskey, particularly bourbon, is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a wide array of cocktails. Its rich, complex flavors—from prominent caramel and vanilla notes to hints of spices—make it an excellent mixer. But with so many options, deciding what to mix with your whiskey bourbon can be challenging. Let's explore some popular mixers, organizing them into categories for easy navigation.
Whether you're looking to complement bourbon's sweet and smoky undertones or create a refreshing contrast, each of these mixers offers a unique drinking experience. So, let's dive in and discover what to mix with your whiskey bourbon.
Non-Alcoholic Mixers
The first stop on our mixing journey is non-alcoholic drinks, as they are often used to balance bourbon's high proof and robust flavors.
Soda is an obvious choice, but consider branching out from plain soda water. Ginger beer, for instance, adds a spicy, warming element that complements bourbon's cinnamon and clove notes. Similarly, tonic water can be an excellent partner, bringing gentle bitterness and a slight sweetness that accentuates bourbon's caramel notes.
Sodas and Sparkling Waters
Soda and sparkling water are classic mixers, and with a wide range of flavors available, they can add a fun twist to your bourbon. From citrus-infused sodas to plain, fizzy water, these mixers offer a refreshing contrast to bourbon's rich, warm flavors.
Try a simple highball, mixing 2 oz of bourbon with 4-6 oz of your preferred soda or sparkling water. You can also enhance flavors by adding a squeeze of fresh citrus or a dash of bitters.
Juices
Fruit juices can add brightness and sweetness to bourbon, taming its oak-forward notes. Apple, orange, and pineapple juices are popular choices, but don't hesitate to explore other options like cranberry, pomegranate, or even tomato juice for a Bloody Mary.
For a balanced blend, mix 2 oz of bourbon with 4-6 oz of juice. Taste and adjust the ratio as needed. Remember, each juice has a different flavor profile and sugar content, so it may take some experimentation to find your perfect blend.
Alcoholic Mixers: Liqueurs and Cordials
Alcoholic mixers range from sweet liqueurs to bitter amari, adding depth and complexity to your bourbon cocktails.
To get started, consider liqueurs. From sweet and creamy to tart and fruity, these mixers can transform your bourbon into a new drink altogether. Bitters, such as Angostura or orange bitters, can elevate cocktails by adding subtle, complex flavors without overpowering bourbon's natural character.
Liqueurs
Liqueurs bring added sweetness and flavor to bourbon, diluting its alcohol content and creating unique drinking experiences.
Try a Maple Bourbon Sour: mix 2 oz bourbon, 1 oz maple syrup, 3/4 oz lemon juice, and 1/2 oz egg white (optional, for froth). Shake with ice, strain into a glass filled with ice, and garnish with a lemon peel.
Amari and Bitter Liqueurs
Amari, Italian liqueurs characterized by their bitterness, create interesting contrasts with bourbon's sweet, rich flavors. Try Averna, a Sicily-based amaro with notes of citrus, vanilla, and warm spices, or look for other bitter liqueurs like Campari or Cynar.
Create a simple Amaro Old Fashioned: muddle a single orange slice in a glass, add 2 oz bourbon, 1/2 oz amaro, a dash of bitters, and a sugar cube. Stir, then add ice and stir again. Garnish with an orange twist.
Complementary Spirits
While not exactly mixers, other spirits can be combined with bourbon to create harmonious duos, accentuating shared flavors and creating unique taste profiles.
Scotch, for instance, shares a common lineage with bourbon, and combining these two whiskeys can reveal fascinating common ground. Rum, too, has its place in bourbon cocktails, adding tropical sweetness and exotic notes that complement bourbon's earthy, oaky character.
Scotch
Scotch and bourbon share a history of aging in oak barrels, though the specifics vary significantly. By mixing them, you'll find a balance of similarities and differences that create an interesting drinking experience.
Try a Scotch-Bourbon Highball: mix 1 oz bourbon, 1 oz single malt Scotch, and 4-6 oz soda or ginger beer. Add a squeeze of lemon or lime for extra zest.
Rum
Rum's natural sweetness and tropical flavors complement bourbon's warm, spicy notes. Consider trying rum-based cocktails with a bourbon twist or blending the two spirits for a unique take on classic recipes.
For a simple Rum & Bourbon Sipper, mix 1.5 oz bourbon, 1.5 oz aged rum, a dash of bitters, and a splash of water. Stir and serve neat or over ice.