Top 5 Bourbon Cocktails to Impress Your Guests This Holiday Season

1. Old Fashioned

Old Fashioned cocktail in a festive holiday setting

The Old Fashioned cocktail is a classic favorite among bourbon enthusiasts. It can be made with bourbon, rye, or blended whiskey, served over ice, and garnished with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry. Perfect for a cozy evening by the fireplace or a sophisticated gathering with friends. Versatile and timeless, the Old Fashioned never goes out of style. Whether you prefer it sweet or with a hint of bitterness, this cocktail is sure to impress your guests.

2. Manhattan

The Classic Recipe

The Manhattan is an iconic elixir of elegance, perfect for those who appreciate a sophisticated cocktail. To craft this classic, you'll need:

  • 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
  • 1 oz sweet vermouth
  • 2 dashes Angostura bitters
  • Maraschino cherry for garnish

Mixing Instructions

  1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
  2. Add the bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
  3. Stir until well-chilled.
  4. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
  5. Garnish with a maraschino cherry.

Pro Tips

  • Use a quality bourbon or rye for the best flavor.
  • Stirring, not shaking, is key to maintaining the drink's clarity and smoothness.
  • For a twist, try a dash of orange bitters.
Explore the history and art of crafting the classic Manhattan cocktail with a perfect recipe for elegance.

3. Mint Julep

festive holiday gathering with bourbon cocktails and mint julep

When it comes to classic bourbon cocktails, the Mint Julep is a timeless favorite. This refreshing concoction combines the bold flavors of bourbon with the subtle sweetness of simple syrup and the invigorating aroma of fresh mint. Sip on this iconic drink and transport yourself to a sunny afternoon on a Southern porch. Whether you're hosting a summer soiree or just craving a taste of tradition, the Mint Julep is sure to impress your guests. Don't forget to garnish with a generous bouquet of mint leaves for that extra touch of elegance.

4. Whiskey Sour

festive whiskey sour cocktail with holiday decorations

Ingredients

  • 2 oz bourbon
  • 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup
  • Ice
  • Lemon twist or cherry for garnish

Instructions

  1. Combine bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a shaker.
  2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
  3. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
  4. Garnish with a lemon twist or cherry.

Why It Impresses

The Whiskey Sour is a classic cocktail that balances the bold flavors of bourbon with the tartness of lemon juice and the sweetness of simple syrup. It's a versatile drink that can be enjoyed year-round, but it truly shines in seasonal whiskey pairings. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or a winter holiday party, the Whiskey Sour is sure to impress your guests.

The Whiskey Sour is a timeless cocktail that brings a touch of elegance to any gathering. Its perfect balance of flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, no matter the occasion.

5. Boulevardier

bourbon cocktail in a festive holiday setting

The Boulevardier is a sophisticated cocktail that combines the richness of bourbon with the bitterness of Campari and the sweetness of vermouth. This drink is perfect for those who enjoy a complex flavor profile.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 oz Bourbon
  • 1 oz Campari
  • 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
  • Orange twist for garnish

Instructions

  1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
  2. Add bourbon, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
  3. Stir until well chilled.
  4. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
  5. Garnish with an orange twist.

Tips for the Perfect Boulevardier

  • Use a high-quality bourbon for the best results.
  • Stir, don't shake, to maintain the drink's clarity.
  • An orange twist adds a zesty aroma that enhances the drink's complexity.
Bold and bitter, the Boulevardier is a must-try for anyone looking to impress their guests with tasty bourbon-infused holiday treats.

The Boulevardier is a classic cocktail that brings together the rich flavors of bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari. It's a sophisticated choice for any cocktail enthusiast. If you're looking to explore more exquisite bourbon options, join our Monthly Bourbon Subscription and have a new, carefully curated bottle delivered to your doorstep each month. Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your bourbon experience!