5 Must-Try Bourbon Cocktails for Your Next Holiday Gathering

1. Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is a cocktail that screams tradition with a twist of bourbon. The perfect blend of sweet, bitter, and boozy, this drink is a staple at any holiday gathering. To make an Old Fashioned, you simply muddle sugar with bitters, add bourbon, and garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry. It's like a hug in a glass!

Remember, the key to a great Old Fashioned is to balance the sweetness with the right amount of bitters.

Here’s a quick guide to get you started:

1. Place a sugar cube in a glass.
2. Saturate with bitters.
3. Add a dash of water.
4. Muddle until dissolved.
5. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
6. Pour in the bourbon.
7. Stir well.
8. Garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry.

2. Mint Julep

The Mint Julep is a refreshing concoction that has graced many a Southern porch and is a staple at the Kentucky Derby. This cocktail is as simple as it is delightful, combining bourbon, fresh mint, sugar, and water. The key to a perfect Mint Julep lies in the gentle muddling of the mint leaves, which releases their essential oils without turning them bitter.

To make a Mint Julep, you'll need:

1. 4 to 5 fresh mint sprigs, leaves only
2. 2 sugar cubes or 1/2 ounce simple syrup
3. 2 1/2 ounces bourbon whiskey
4. Crushed ice
5. Extra mint sprig for garnish

Gently muddle the mint leaves with sugar in a chilled julep cup. Add bourbon and top with crushed ice. Stir until the cup is frosted on the outside. Garnish with a sprig of mint, and serve immediately for that refreshing kick.

3. Manhattan

The Manhattan is a classic cocktail that whispers of old New York sophistication. With its smooth blend of rye whiskey or bourbon, sweet vermouth, and a dash of bitters, this drink is a staple at any classy gathering. The key to a perfect Manhattan is the balance between the sweetness of the vermouth and the robust flavor of the whiskey. Here’s a simple way to make one:

1. Pour 2 ounces of rye whiskey or bourbon into a mixing glass.
2. Add 1 ounce of sweet vermouth.
3. Include 2 to 3 dashes of aromatic bitters.
4. Stir well with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a cherry.

This cocktail not only tastes great but also carries a piece of history in every sip. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or just enjoying a quiet evening, a Manhattan can make any moment a little more special.

4. Whiskey Sour

The Whiskey Sour is the cocktail that proves sour can indeed be sweet, and it's a must-try for any bourbon enthusiast. This classic drink combines bourbon with lemon juice and simple syrup to create a balance of tartness and sweetness that's just right. The key to a perfect Whiskey Sour is in the shake; a good, vigorous shake ensures that all the flavors meld beautifully. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Pour 2 ounces of bourbon, 3/4 ounce of lemon juice, and 1/2 to 3/4 ounce of simple syrup.
3. Shake well until the mixture is well chilled.
4. Strain into a chilled glass and garnish with a cherry or an orange slice.

For those who like a bit of a frothy top, adding an egg white to the shaker before you start is the secret. Just remember, the egg is optional but the enjoyment is mandatory!

5. Boulevardier

The Boulevardier is a sophisticated yet simple cocktail that packs a punch with its robust flavors. A perfect blend of bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari, this drink is a must-try for anyone looking to impress their guests with something a little different. The key to a great Boulevardier is the balance of ingredients:

• 40ml bourbon
• 20ml sweet vermouth
• 20ml Campari

Serve it stirred, not shaken, and garnish with an orange twist to enhance the citrus notes. The Boulevardier is not just a cocktail; it's a conversation starter that brings a touch of class to any holiday gathering.

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