Many people think of bourbon as a spirit best saved for cold nights and contemplative sipping. While we love a good winter warmer, that’s only one small part of the story. Bourbon is one of the most versatile spirits you can have on your bar cart, equally at home in a bright, refreshing summer smash as it is in a rich, spirit-forward Old Fashioned. In this guide, we’ll show you how to unlock that versatility. We’ll cover everything from light and citrusy highballs to cozy, spiced creations, proving that the best bourbon drinks are perfect for enjoying all year long.
Key Takeaways
- Choose the right bourbon for the job: Let the spirit’s unique flavor profile—whether spicy, sweet, or smooth—guide your choice of mixers and garnishes to create a perfectly balanced cocktail every time.
- Master the classics before creating your own: Learning foundational recipes like the Old Fashioned or Whiskey Sour teaches you the core principles of balance, giving you the confidence to experiment with seasonal ingredients and personal twists.
- Fresh ingredients and proper tools are non-negotiable: Simple upgrades like fresh-squeezed citrus, large ice cubes, and the correct glassware are the keys to crafting consistently delicious cocktails that honor the spirit in your glass.
What Makes Bourbon Special?
Before we start mixing, let’s talk about what makes bourbon America’s native spirit. It’s more than just another whiskey; it’s a spirit with strict rules, a deep history, and a flavor profile all its own. Understanding its unique character is the first step to making truly incredible cocktails that you’ll be proud to share.
A Quick History of Bourbon
Bourbon’s story begins in the late 18th century, rooted in the cornfields of Kentucky. Early distillers, many of them settlers, transformed their surplus corn into a new kind of whiskey. This spirit, born of resourcefulness, eventually took the name of Bourbon County and became an American icon. It’s a history filled with trailblazers who, like Mary Dowling, shaped the industry through sheer will and ingenuity, even when the odds were stacked against them. This rich heritage is part of what you taste in every glass.
What Makes a Whiskey a Bourbon?
So, what separates bourbon from other whiskeys? It all comes down to a set of non-negotiable rules. To legally be called bourbon, a whiskey must be made in the United States and have a grain mixture, or mash bill, of at least 51% corn. It has to be aged in brand-new, charred oak barrels, which is where much of its color and flavor comes from. There are also strict proof requirements for distillation and aging, and absolutely no added flavors or colors are allowed. These standards ensure every bottle of true bourbon delivers a consistent, quality experience, reflecting the meticulous craftsmanship behind it.
Common Bourbon Flavors
Thanks to its corn base and time spent in charred oak, bourbon has a distinctively smooth and often sweet character. The corn lends a gentle sweetness, while the new charred oak barrels contribute those classic notes of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice. Depending on the specific mash bill and aging process, you might also find flavors of toasted oak, baked fruit, or even subtle floral hints. This complex and inviting flavor profile makes bourbon incredibly versatile. It’s bold enough to stand on its own yet plays beautifully with other ingredients, making it the perfect foundation for countless classic and modern recipes.
Classic Bourbon Cocktails to Know and Love
Before you can break the rules, you have to know them. The world of bourbon cocktails is vast and exciting, but it all starts with a handful of timeless classics. These are the drinks that have stood the test of time for a reason—they’re balanced, delicious, and showcase the spirit in its best light. Mastering these recipes is like building a foundation for your home bar; once you have it, you can build anything you want on top.
Each of these cocktails tells a story, a little piece of drinking history that connects us to the past, much like the legacy of Mary Dowling herself. They prove that you don’t need a long list of obscure ingredients to create something truly special. All you need is a great bottle of bourbon and a few quality components. Think of these recipes as your starting point. Learn them, love them, and then make them your own. The best cocktail is the one you love to drink, and it all begins with one of our whiskeys and a classic recipe.
The Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is the quintessential bourbon cocktail. It’s simple, spirit-forward, and endlessly sophisticated. This drink is all about honoring the whiskey, with just a few ingredients to complement its natural character. To make one, you’ll need bourbon, a sugar cube or simple syrup, a few dashes of Angostura bitters, and a splash of water.
Start by muddling the sugar and bitters in the bottom of a rocks glass. Add a large ice cube, then pour in your bourbon. Stir gently until the drink is well-chilled and properly diluted. The final touch is a bright, fragrant garnish—an orange twist is classic, and expressing the oils over the drink before dropping it in makes all the difference.
The Manhattan
Elegant and assertive, the Manhattan is a cocktail for those who appreciate a strong, sippable drink. It’s a beautiful blend of bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters that results in a smooth, rich, and slightly sweet profile. While some recipes call for rye, a well-chosen bourbon adds a lovely roundness and depth.
To craft the perfect Manhattan, combine your bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters in a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir—never shake—until the outside of the glass is frosty. This ensures a silky, clear consistency. Strain it into a chilled coupe or martini glass and garnish with a high-quality cocktail cherry. It’s a timeless classic that feels right at home in any setting, from a quiet night in to a celebratory toast.
The Mint Julep
Nothing says “Southern charm” quite like a Mint Julep. Famously the signature drink of the Kentucky Derby, this cocktail is incredibly refreshing and perfect for a warm afternoon. It’s a simple mix of bourbon, fresh mint, simple syrup, and a mountain of crushed ice. The magic is in the preparation and presentation.
In a Julep cup or a highball glass, gently muddle a handful of fresh mint leaves with simple syrup. You want to release the fragrant oils, not pulverize the leaves. Add your bourbon, then fill the glass to the top with crushed ice. Stir until the cup becomes frosty on the outside. Top with more crushed ice to form a dome and garnish with a big, beautiful sprig of fresh mint.
The Whiskey Sour
The Whiskey Sour strikes the perfect balance between sweet, tart, and strong. It’s a bright and refreshing cocktail that truly lets the sweet notes of bourbon shine alongside fresh citrus. The core recipe calls for just three ingredients: bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup. For a richer texture and a beautiful foam top, you can add an egg white (or aquafaba) for a traditional Boston Sour.
To make it, combine all your ingredients in a shaker. If you’re using an egg white, do a “dry shake” first (without ice) to build the foam. Then, add ice and shake vigorously until well-chilled. Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice and garnish with an orange slice and a cherry.
The Boulevardier
Often described as a Negroni’s bourbon-based cousin, the Boulevardier is a sophisticated and complex sipper. It swaps gin for bourbon, creating a warmer, richer, and more rounded cocktail while maintaining that signature bittersweet profile. The recipe is a simple, equal-parts combination of bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari.
This is another cocktail that should be stirred, not shaken. Combine all three ingredients in a mixing glass with ice and stir until perfectly chilled and diluted. Strain it into a rocks glass with a large ice cube or serve it “up” in a chilled coupe. A simple orange twist is the perfect garnish to complement the drink’s citrusy and bitter notes.
The Kentucky Mule
If you love the zesty kick of a Moscow Mule, you’ll feel right at home with the Kentucky Mule. This version swaps vodka for bourbon, adding a layer of vanilla and caramel complexity that pairs beautifully with the spice of ginger beer and the tang of fresh lime. It’s a wonderfully refreshing highball that’s incredibly easy to make.
Simply combine bourbon and fresh lime juice in a copper mug (or a highball glass) filled with ice. Top it off with a quality, spicy ginger beer and give it a gentle stir to combine. Garnish with a lime wedge and a sprig of mint if you’re feeling fancy. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any casual get-together.
The Hot Toddy
When the weather turns cold, there’s no better remedy than a Hot Toddy. This warm, soothing drink is like a hug in a mug, combining bourbon, hot water, honey, and lemon. It’s been hailed for generations as a cure for the common cold, but you don’t need to be under the weather to enjoy its comforting embrace.
Preparation couldn’t be simpler. Just pour your bourbon, a spoonful of honey, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice into a mug. Top with hot (not boiling) water and stir until the honey is completely dissolved. You can find more cocktail recipes like this on our site. Garnish with a lemon wheel and a cinnamon stick for an extra touch of warmth and spice.
Modern Twists and Seasonal Sips
While the classics have their place, modern bourbon cocktails offer exciting new flavor combinations that are perfect for any season. These drinks often use fresh ingredients and unique liqueurs to create something truly memorable. They prove that a spirit with as much history as bourbon can still be the star of a contemporary drink menu. From bright and fruity smashes to complex, bittersweet creations, these recipes give you a chance to play with different profiles and find a new favorite. They’re a fantastic way to expand your home bartending skills and surprise your guests with something unexpected.
The Gold Rush
Think of the Gold Rush as the Whiskey Sour’s sophisticated cousin. It’s a simple, elegant cocktail that lets the bourbon shine, balanced perfectly by sweet and citrus notes. To make it, you’ll combine bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and a rich honey syrup. The result is a smooth, refreshing drink that’s incredibly easy to mix up at a moment’s notice. We recommend using a bourbon with a bit of spice and sweetness, like our Mary Dowling Double Oak Barrel, to complement the honey. Garnish with a lemon twist to add a bright, aromatic finish. It’s a modern classic for a reason.
The Paper Plane
If you enjoy a cocktail with layers of flavor, the Paper Plane is for you. It’s a beautifully balanced drink that brings together bitter, sour, and herbal notes in perfect harmony. Made with equal parts bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, and fresh lemon juice, it’s both complex and surprisingly refreshing. This cocktail is a great way to introduce friends to the world of Italian bitter liqueurs, or amari, as the bourbon provides a familiar, grounding warmth. The vibrant, reddish-orange hue makes it a visually stunning drink that’s as fun to look at as it is to sip.
The Blackberry Bourbon Smash
When you have fresh berries on hand, the Blackberry Bourbon Smash is a must-try. This vibrant cocktail is bursting with fresh fruit and mint, making it an ideal drink for a warm afternoon. You’ll start by muddling fresh blackberries and mint leaves with a bit of simple syrup to release their flavors. Then, add your favorite bourbon and a splash of lemon juice, shake it all with ice, and strain it into a glass. The combination of sweet berries, cool mint, and rich bourbon is simply delightful. It’s a hands-on drink that always feels like a special treat.
Cozy Fall and Winter Cocktails
As the weather cools down, bourbon’s warming qualities really come to the forefront. This is the perfect time to experiment with cocktails that feature comforting spices and rich flavors. Think beyond the Hot Toddy and try creating a bourbon drink with apple cider, a dash of cinnamon, and a touch of maple syrup. You can also make your own spiced simple syrups infused with star anise, cloves, or cardamom to add seasonal depth to an Old Fashioned. These cozy creations are perfect for sipping by the fire or sharing with friends during the holidays, showcasing bourbon’s comforting side.
Bright Spring and Summer Cocktails
Don’t let anyone tell you bourbon is only for cold weather. In the spring and summer, it serves as an excellent base for bright, refreshing drinks. Pair it with seasonal fruits like peaches, strawberries, or cherries for a flavorful twist on a classic smash or sour. Fresh herbs like basil or rosemary can also add a lovely aromatic dimension. A simple bourbon and soda with a squeeze of fresh grapefruit is another fantastic way to enjoy a lighter bourbon cocktail. These drinks highlight the spirit’s versatility and prove it belongs in your glass all year long.
Your Home Bar Toolkit
You don’t need a sprawling, professional-grade setup to craft incredible bourbon cocktails at home. Much like Mary Dowling, who made her mark with resilience and resourcefulness, you can achieve amazing results with a few key pieces of equipment. Investing in a quality toolkit is the first step toward making drinks that are consistently balanced and beautiful. It’s less about having every gadget imaginable and more about having the right ones that feel good in your hands and perform their jobs perfectly. Building your home bar is a rewarding process that puts you in control, allowing you to experiment with flavors and perfect your favorite drinks right in your own kitchen.
With these core items, you’ll be prepared to tackle any recipe, from a stirred and spirit-forward Old Fashioned to a shaken and frothy Whiskey Sour. Think of these as your trusted instruments for turning a bottle of exceptional bourbon into a memorable experience. Having the proper tools removes the guesswork, giving you the confidence to serve drinks you’re proud of. It’s your personal station for creativity, a place where you can unwind after a long day or prepare something special for friends.
The Essential Bar Tools
To get started, you’ll want a core set of tools. A double-sided jigger is non-negotiable for accurate measuring—precision is what separates a good cocktail from a great one. A cocktail shaker, typically a Boston or cobbler style, is crucial for drinks that include citrus, egg whites, or cream. For stirred cocktails like the Manhattan, a mixing glass and a long-handled bar spoon are your best friends. Finally, a strainer (a Hawthorne for your shaker and a Julep or fine-mesh strainer for your mixing glass) will ensure your final drink is free of ice shards and muddled ingredients. These essential bar tools form the foundation of any home bar.
How to Measure and Mix Like a Pro
Consistency is the secret to a perfect cocktail every time. Always use your jigger to measure ingredients precisely. When a recipe calls for stirring, place your ingredients and ice in a mixing glass and stir gently with a bar spoon for about 20-30 seconds. This technique chills and dilutes the drink perfectly without introducing too much air, preserving the silky texture of a spirit-forward cocktail. Shaking is a more vigorous method used to chill, dilute, and aerate ingredients. When you shake a cocktail, you’re combining everything with force, creating the light, frothy texture ideal for sours and other citrus-based drinks.
Why Ice and Temperature Matter
Ice is perhaps the most overlooked ingredient in a cocktail, but it’s one of the most important. Its job is twofold: to chill and to dilute. Using small, cloudy ice from your freezer tray will melt quickly, watering down your drink before you can even enjoy it. For a superior cocktail, use large, clear ice cubes or spheres. They have less surface area, which means they melt slower, providing the perfect amount of chill and dilution without compromising the bold flavors of your Mary Dowling whiskey. Always build your drink in a glass filled with fresh ice—never reuse the ice you used for shaking or stirring.
Simple Garnishes That Impress
A garnish is the finishing touch that engages the senses before the first sip. It adds aroma, a hint of flavor, and visual appeal that signals the care you put into the drink. You don’t need elaborate, time-consuming garnishes to make an impact. A simple swath of citrus peel, expressed over the top of the glass to release its fragrant oils, can completely transform a drink. A few fresh mint leaves, gently clapped between your hands to release their scent, are perfect for a Mint Julep or Smash. Learning how to create a few simple cocktail garnishes is an easy way to make your home cocktails feel truly special.
The Art of a Balanced Bourbon Cocktail
Creating a truly memorable bourbon cocktail is all about balance. It’s a dance between the spirit’s bold character and the other ingredients in your glass. When you get it right, every element sings in harmony, creating a drink that’s more than the sum of its parts. The key isn’t a secret recipe, but rather understanding a few core principles. From selecting the perfect bourbon to mastering the interplay of sweet and sour, you can learn to craft cocktails that are consistently delicious.
Think of your bourbon as the foundation. Its unique profile—whether it’s spicy and robust or smooth and mellow—will guide every other choice you make. Building on that foundation with complementary flavors and fresh, quality ingredients is what turns a good drink into a great one. It’s about letting the bourbon shine while creating a complete, satisfying experience for your palate. Let’s explore how to achieve that perfect harmony in every glass.
Choose the Right Bourbon for Your Drink
The first step to a fantastic cocktail is selecting the right bourbon. Not all bourbons are created equal, and their individual character will dramatically shape your drink. A bourbon’s mash bill—the mix of grains used to make it—and its time spent aging in new, charred oak barrels determine its flavor. A high-rye bourbon will bring a spicy kick perfect for a Manhattan, while a wheated bourbon offers a softer, smoother profile ideal for a Whiskey Sour.
Consider the other ingredients in your cocktail. If you’re mixing with strong flavors like amaro or ginger beer, you’ll want a bold, higher-proof bourbon that can hold its own. For more delicate, spirit-forward drinks like an Old Fashioned, a bourbon with nuanced notes of vanilla, caramel, and fruit will shine. Exploring different award-winning whiskeys with unique barrel finishes can open up a whole new world of cocktail possibilities.
Find the Perfect Flavor Pairings
Bourbon is incredibly versatile, pairing beautifully with a wide range of flavors. The secret is to think about complementing or contrasting its natural notes. Bourbon’s inherent sweetness and hints of vanilla and caramel work wonderfully with the bright acidity of citrus fruits like lemon, orange, and grapefruit. Spices are another classic partner; think cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice in a warming winter drink or the fresh kick of mint in a summer Julep.
Don’t be afraid to experiment. Stone fruits like peaches and cherries are a perfect match, as are berries and even tropical fruits like pineapple. For a different direction, try pairing bourbon with coffee, chocolate, or maple for a rich, decadent cocktail. Exploring a collection of bourbon recipes can give you a great starting point for discovering flavor combinations you love.
Let Fresh Ingredients Shine
If there’s one rule to follow for better cocktails, it’s this: always use fresh ingredients. The difference between fresh-squeezed lemon juice and the stuff from a bottle is night and day. Fresh juice provides a bright, vibrant acidity that pre-packaged mixers simply can’t replicate. The same goes for your herbs and garnishes. A freshly muddled sprig of mint or a fragrant orange peel expressed over your drink adds an aromatic dimension that elevates the entire experience.
Making your own simple syrup is also a game-changer. It’s incredibly easy—just equal parts sugar and hot water, stirred until dissolved—and it gives you complete control over the sweetness of your drink. When you use high-quality, fresh components, you honor the craftsmanship of the bourbon and allow its complex flavors to take center stage.
How to Balance Your Cocktail
The classic formula for a balanced cocktail is a simple ratio of strong, sweet, and sour. The “strong” is your bourbon, the “sweet” is typically a simple syrup or liqueur, and the “sour” is usually citrus juice. A common starting point for a sour-style drink is two parts strong, one part sweet, and one part sour. This simple framework is the foundation for countless classic cocktails, from the Whiskey Sour to the Daiquiri.
Because bourbon is made from at least 51% corn, it has a natural sweetness that other whiskeys might lack. Keep this in mind when you’re mixing. You might find you need slightly less sugar or a bit more citrus to achieve the perfect balance. Taste your drink as you go and adjust the proportions until it’s just right for you. Mastering this balance is what will give you the confidence to move beyond recipes and start creating your own signature drinks.
Create Your Own Signature Bourbon Cocktail
Ready to move beyond the recipe book? Creating your own signature bourbon cocktail is a fantastic way to express your personal taste. It’s all about experimenting with flavors you love and understanding how they work with the rich character of a great bourbon. Think of it as a creative project where the delicious result is all yours to enjoy.
Start with a Flavor Profile
Before you start mixing, get to know your star ingredient. Bourbon has a fundamentally sweet and spicy character, thanks to its corn-based mash bill and time spent in new, charred oak barrels. Pour a small amount of your chosen bourbon and sip it neat. What do you taste? Vanilla, caramel, oak, a hint of cinnamon or fruit? Identifying these notes is your first step. A bourbon with strong caramel notes might pair beautifully with apple or pear, while one with a spicier finish could stand up to ginger or citrus. Exploring different award-winning whiskeys will give you a broader palette to play with.
Incorporate Seasonal Ingredients
One of the best things about bourbon is its versatility. It works just as well in a bright, refreshing summer drink as it does in a warming winter sipper. Let the seasons guide your creativity. In the spring, try adding fresh herbs like mint or basil. Summer is perfect for muddling fresh berries or stone fruit. When fall arrives, think about spiced syrups, apple cider, or a touch of pumpkin. Using fresh, seasonal ingredients is a simple way to make your cocktail feel current and vibrant. For more ideas on what’s in season, check out some of our favorite bourbon recipes.
Master Basic Mixing Techniques
You don’t have to reinvent the wheel to create a signature drink. The best approach is often to learn a classic and then give it a personal twist. Take the Old Fashioned, for example. Its simple formula of bourbon, sugar, bitters, and water is a perfect canvas. Once you’ve mastered the original, you can start experimenting. Try swapping the sugar cube for maple syrup, using a different type of bitters, or adding a splash of a complementary liqueur. Understanding the structure of these foundational bourbon cocktails gives you the confidence to make them your own.
Perfect Your Presentation
How a drink looks is part of the experience. The right presentation makes your creation feel intentional and special. Think about the glass—a heavy rocks glass feels right for a spirit-forward drink, while a tall Collins glass is great for something more refreshing. Don’t overlook the ice; a large cube or sphere melts slower, chilling your drink without diluting it too quickly. Finally, choose a garnish that complements the flavors. A simple orange or lemon twist, expressed over the glass to release its oils, can completely change the aroma and first sip of your cocktail. It’s these small details that make a good drink a great one.
Pro Tips for Unforgettable Bourbon Cocktails
Once you’ve mastered a few recipes, you can start refining your technique. The difference between a good bourbon cocktail and a truly great one often comes down to the details. Paying attention to your ingredients, temperature, and even your glassware can transform your home bartending game. These professional tips are simple to follow and will help you create cocktails that are consistently delicious and impressive, doing justice to the spirit in your glass.
Why Quality Ingredients Are Key
A cocktail is a sum of its parts, which means every single ingredient matters. Start with a fantastic bourbon. A spirit with a complex character, like our Tequila Barrel Finished Whiskey, provides a rich and interesting base that shines through, even when mixed. Beyond the bourbon, always opt for fresh ingredients. Squeezing your own lemon or lime juice takes seconds and offers a brightness that bottled juices just can’t match. The same goes for your syrups, bitters, and garnishes. Using fresh mint or a high-quality cherry will make a noticeable difference in the final taste and aroma of your drink.
The Secret to Perfect Temperature
Temperature is one of the most overlooked elements in cocktail making, but it dramatically affects flavor and dilution. A properly chilled drink is crisp and refreshing, while a lukewarm one can taste flat. For cocktails served without ice, like a Manhattan, always chill your glassware in the freezer for at least 15 minutes beforehand. When a drink calls for ice, use the best you can. Large, clear ice cubes or spheres melt much slower than standard freezer ice, chilling your drink perfectly without watering it down too quickly. This ensures the first sip is just as balanced and flavorful as the last.
Select the Right Glassware
The glass you choose does more than just hold your drink—it shapes the entire experience. The right glassware directs the cocktail’s aromas to your nose and can even help maintain its temperature. A heavy-bottomed rocks glass (or lowball) is perfect for muddled drinks or cocktails served over a large ice cube, like an Old Fashioned. A stemmed coupe or Nick & Nora glass is ideal for drinks served “up” (chilled, without ice), as it keeps your hands from warming the liquid. For taller, refreshing drinks like a Kentucky Mule, a highball glass or copper mug is the way to go.
How to Store and Serve Bourbon
Properly caring for your bourbon ensures it tastes its best, whether you’re sipping it neat or mixing it into a cocktail. Always store your whiskey bottles upright in a cool, dark place, like a cabinet or pantry. Storing them on their side can cause the high-proof spirit to disintegrate the cork over time, and exposure to direct sunlight or heat can alter the delicate flavors. This spirit was crafted with resilience and care, honoring a legacy of defiance, and it deserves to be protected. When serving, you’ll find that a single drop of water can often open up the aromas in a glass of bourbon served neat.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best type of bourbon to start with for making cocktails? When you’re just starting out, look for a versatile, well-balanced bourbon that isn’t too aggressive in any one direction. A bourbon with classic notes of caramel, vanilla, and a smooth finish will work beautifully in a wide range of drinks, from a spirit-forward Old Fashioned to a bright Whiskey Sour. Our Mary Dowling Double Oak Barrel is a fantastic all-rounder that provides a rich foundation without overpowering other ingredients.
When should I shake a cocktail versus stir it? A great rule of thumb is to shake any drink that contains citrus, fruit juice, cream, or egg whites. The vigorous motion of shaking chills the drink quickly while also aerating it, creating a lighter, frothier texture. You should stir cocktails that are made up entirely of spirits, like a Manhattan or a Boulevardier. Stirring provides a perfect chill and dilution while maintaining a silky, clear consistency that lets the spirits shine.
My cocktails taste too strong or too sweet. How do I fix the balance? Achieving the right balance is all about tasting and adjusting, as everyone’s palate is a little different. A great starting point for many cocktails is a ratio of two parts spirit, one part sweet, and one part sour. If your drink tastes too strong, you may need a touch more of the sweet and sour elements to round it out. If it’s too sweet, a little more citrus or an extra dash of bitters can provide the necessary balance. Don’t be afraid to tweak the recipe until it tastes perfect to you.
Can I really use an egg white in my Whiskey Sour? Absolutely! Adding an egg white (or a vegan alternative like aquafaba) is the traditional way to make a Boston Sour, which is a variation of the Whiskey Sour. It doesn’t add flavor but creates a wonderfully rich texture and a beautiful, velvety foam on top of the drink. The key is to “dry shake” all your ingredients without ice first to build the foam, then add ice and shake again to chill and dilute the cocktail.
Besides cocktails, what’s the best way to enjoy a good bourbon? While bourbon is fantastic in cocktails, sometimes the best way to appreciate its character is to sip it on its own. Pour a small amount into a glass and let it sit for a moment. Notice the color and the aroma before you take a small sip. You can also try adding a single drop of water, which can help open up the spirit’s complex aromas and soften the alcohol, allowing more subtle flavors to come forward.
Justin Pakdaman is the Marketing Director for Mary Dowling Whiskey Co., where he leads brand storytelling, digital strategy, and consumer engagement. Justin has years of experience building premium spirits brands.