The whisky/whiskey debate has fuelled many a heated discussion this side of the Atlantic. For scotch aficionados, bourbon is an inferior product as it’s made from multiple grains (majority corn) rather than a single type (usually barley). But the added spicy/sweet notes of bourbon make it a good choice for crowd-pleasing cocktails.
Here are a few of our favourites.
Old Fashioned
Quite simply the grandfather of bourbon cocktails. The Old Fashioned is a restrained
yet sophisticated blend of bourbon, whisky, sugar and bitters, with a twist of citrus.
We make ours with Adnams Single Malt Whisky as well as bourbon. A dash of
aromatic bitters adds complexity, enhancing the layers of flavour and the sip finishes
with a subtle hint of sweetness, leaving a lingering warmth.
Flavour notes: smooth, spirit-forward and timeless.
Mint Julep
A bona fide southern-states icon, inextricably linked to the Kentucky Derby. This
summer favourite is easy to make – muddle some mint leaves with sugar syrup in
the bottom of a shaker before adding a measure or two of bourbon and a handful of
ice. After shaking, strain into a highball glass (or silver cup for authenticity) filled with
crushed ice. Garnish and serve with a mint sprig.
Flavour notes: refreshing, herbal and steeped in tradition.
Whiskey Sour
The traditional recipe calls for whiskey – you can choose bourbon or rye – plus
lemon juice, sugar and egg white, which helps to create a smooth and deliciously
silky texture. The best results come from dry shaking the ingredients (without ice)
before shaking again with ice and serving on the rocks. A perfect balance of smoky,
sour and sweet.
Flavour notes: tangy, smooth, and rounded.
Manhattan
A close relation of its Old Fashioned sibling, the Manhattan introduces a cheeky
splash of vermouth (a mix of dry and sweet varieties is best) to the bourbon and
bitters combo, before being topped with a maraschino cherry or a twist of orange and
served in a classic coupe or Martini glass. Likely named after its city-island of origin.
Flavour notes: strong, aromatic and sophisticated.
Boulevardier
If you’re a fan of the Negroni, try this bourbon-based twist on a classic cocktail. Pour
a measure each of bourbon, vermouth and Campari into a jug, together with a good
handful of ice. Stir until super chilled, before straining into an ice-filled tumbler and
serve with a twist of orange.
Flavour notes: bitter-sweet, complex and elegant.
