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. This drink is as straightforward as it gets, but don't let its simplicity fool you; it's packed with flavor. To make a classic Old Fashioned, you'll need a sugar cube, a few dashes of bitters, a splash of water, and, of course, bourbon. Muddle the sugar and bitters, add ice, pour in the bourbon, and give it a good stir. Garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry to bring out the zest.

The beauty of the Old Fashioned lies in its balance between sweetness and the robust flavor of bourbon.

Here’s a quick rundown on how to assemble this timeless cocktail:

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

2. Mint Julep

The Mint Julep is not just a drink; it's a Southern tradition steeped in hospitality. Known for its refreshing qualities and its strong ties to the Kentucky Derby, this cocktail is a must-try for any bourbon enthusiast. The beauty of the Mint Julep lies in its simplicity and the perfect balance of its four main ingredients: bourbon, simple syrup, crushed ice, and fresh mint.

To make a classic Mint Julep, you'll need:

1. A generous helping of bourbon
2. A splash of simple syrup
3. A heap of crushed ice
4. Plenty of fresh mint

Gently muddle the mint with the simple syrup to release the oils, then add the bourbon and top with crushed ice. Give it a quick stir, and voila! You have yourself a drink that's as refreshing as a gentle Southern breeze. Remember, the key to a great Mint Julep is not just in the mixing, but in the experience of enjoying it slowly, letting the ice melt and mellow the flavors.

3. Manhattan

The Manhattan is a classic cocktail that screams sophistication and a touch of old New York charm. It's a simple yet potent mixture of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and a dash of bitters. This cocktail is often stirred, not shaken, to maintain its clarity and smooth texture. The perfect Manhattan is all about balance; the sweetness of the vermouth ideally complements the robust flavor of the whiskey, while the bitters add a layer of complexity.

To make a Manhattan, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 2 oz whiskey
• 1 oz sweet vermouth
• 2 dashes of bitters
• Ice
• Maraschino cherry (for garnish)

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Pour the whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters over the ice.
3. Stir well until the mixture is well chilled.
4. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a maraschino cherry.

Enjoy your Manhattan at your next holiday gathering and watch it become the star of the evening!

4. Whiskey Sour

The Whiskey Sour is the perfect blend of sweet, tart, and boozy flavors that can easily elevate any holiday gathering. This cocktail is not only a crowd-pleaser but also surprisingly simple to whip up with just a few ingredients. Here’s how you can make your guests ask for a second round:

1. Combine 2 ounces of bourbon, 3/4 ounce fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 ounce simple syrup in a shaker.
2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously until well chilled.
3. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a cherry or an orange slice.

Remember, the key to a perfect Whiskey Sour is in the balance of its ingredients. Too much lemon and it overshadows the bourbon; too little, and it lacks that zesty punch.

5. Boulevardier

The Boulevardier is like the sophisticated cousin of the Negroni, but swaps out gin for some robust bourbon. This cocktail not only warms the heart but also brings a touch of class to any holiday gathering. Prepare to impress your guests with this deceptively simple concoction.

To make a classic Boulevardier, you'll need:

• 1 part bourbon
• 1 part sweet vermouth
• 1 part Campari

Simply stir the ingredients with ice, strain into a chilled glass, and garnish with a twist of orange peel. The balance of bitter and sweet makes the Boulevardier a memorable staple for any festive occasion.

Dive into the world of exquisite spirits with our 'Boulevardier' section at PourMore. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, our meticulously curated selections promise an unparalleled tasting journey. Don't miss out on our June delivery - secure your subscription today and elevate your sipping experience! Visit our website to explore more and join our vibrant community.