As a bartender, you know that there are few things better than a perfectly balanced cocktail. Whether you're looking for something sweet, sour, or spicy, there's a drink out there that's perfectly suited to your taste.
But when it comes to finding the perfect combination of flavors, few mixers are as versatile as lemon. With its bright, tangy taste and refreshing acidity, lemon can be used to add depth and complexity to a wide range of spirits, including everyone's favorite: bourbon.
Bourbon and lemon cocktails have been a popular choice among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts for years, and for good reason. The combination of sweet, smoky bourbon and tart, zesty lemon creates a drink that's both refreshing and complex.
But with so many different bourbon and lemon cocktails out there, it can be hard to know where to start. That's why we've put together a list of the best bourbon and lemon cocktail recipes to help you find your new favorite drink.
Whether you're a fan of classic cocktails like the Whiskey Sour or prefer something a little more adventurous, there's a bourbon and lemon cocktail out there that's perfect for you.
From the simple and straightforward to the bold and complex, these recipes are sure to impress even the most discerning cocktail connoisseur. So sit back, relax, and get ready to discover your new favorite drink.
1. Bourbon Lemon Cocktail
The Bourbon Lemon Cocktail is a refreshing and light cocktail that is perfect for a Girls Night In or any social gathering. Made with only three ingredients, this cocktail is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. The combination of bourbon, Tropicana Tangerine Lemonade, and bitters creates a citrus twist on a classic bourbon cocktail.
The Tropicana Tangerine Lemonade adds a natural sweetness without being too overpowering, making it a great mixer for those who prefer less sweet cocktails. This cocktail is perfect for those who love bourbon but want to try something new and refreshing. Give it a try at your next gathering and impress your friends with this delicious and easy-to-make cocktail.
2. Bourbon Lemon Rosemary Cocktail
The Bourbon Lemon Rosemary Cocktail is a modern twist on a classic drink that is perfect for happy hour. This cocktail features herb-infused simple syrup and a bright citrus flavor that is sure to impress your guests. The rosemary adds a subtle earthy note that complements the bourbon perfectly.
This cocktail is easy to make and uses simple ingredients that are easy to find. It's a great choice for those who want to try something new and exciting. If you're looking for a delicious and refreshing cocktail that's perfect for any occasion, give the Bourbon Lemon Rosemary Cocktail a try.
3. Blueberry Whiskey Lemonade
The Blueberry Whiskey Lemonade is a refreshing cocktail that combines fresh blueberries, fresh lemon juice, bourbon whiskey, and a bit of sugar. The drink is made by muddling the sugar and blueberries, adding fresh squeezed lemon juice and bourbon, and shaking it vigorously.
The cocktail is then strained over ice, topped with seltzer, and garnished with fresh blueberries and a slice of lemon. It's a potent drink with 2 shots per cocktail, but you can adjust the amount of bourbon to your liking.
4. Bourbon Sour Cocktail
The Bourbon Sour Cocktail is a classic drink that combines the rich flavor of bourbon with the tangy taste of fresh lemon juice. This refreshing cocktail is perfect for any occasion, and it's particularly enjoyable during the summer months.
The combination of sweet and tart flavors is perfectly balanced, making it a great choice for those who love cocktails that are not too sweet. The Bourbon Sour Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves bourbon and is looking for a new way to enjoy this classic spirit. With its delightful blend of flavors and refreshing taste, this cocktail is sure to become a new favorite.
5. Bourbon Lemonade Cocktail
The Bourbon Lemonade Cocktail is a sweet and tangy drink made with either bourbon or whiskey. It's perfect for unwinding after a long day and packs a punch without being too strong.
The bourbon or whiskey adds a smoothness that pairs perfectly with the tartness of the lemonade. It's easy to prepare and perfect for sipping on a hot summer day or cozy night in. Give it a try and experience a refreshing and delicious way to enjoy your favorite spirit.
6. Whiskey Lemon Cocktail
The Whiskey Lemon Cocktail is a perfect blend of the rich, smoky flavor of bourbon and the tangy, citrusy taste of lemon. This cocktail is a must-try for all bourbon lovers who like their drink with a twist. The addition of ginger and rosemary-infused simple syrup adds a unique flavor to the drink, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.
The cocktail is easy to make and requires only two bar tools, making it a great option for home bartenders. The Whiskey Lemon Cocktail is a refreshing and elegant drink that can be served with a variety of appetizers. If you're looking for a cocktail that's both flavorful and easy to make, the Whiskey Lemon Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
7. Classic Bourbon Smash
The Classic Bourbon Smash is a refreshing and flavorful cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. This sweet-tart bourbon cocktail is made with a hearty dose of lemon and fresh mint, which gives it a unique and dimensional flavor. The cocktail is easy to make with crushed ice, a Boston shaker, and a muddler.
It is served in a rocks glass and can be sweetened with maple syrup, simple syrup, sucanat, honey, or sugar in the raw. The Classic Bourbon Smash is perfect for those who love bourbon and those who are new to the spirit. It is a great cocktail to enjoy year-round and is sure to be a hit with your guests.
8. Maple Bourbon Sour Cocktail
If you're looking for a simple yet sophisticated cocktail to impress your guests, look no further than the Maple Bourbon Sour Cocktail. Made with just three ingredients, this cocktail is perfect for fall gatherings and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The high-quality bourbon adds a rich, complex flavor that is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of pure maple syrup and the tartness of fresh lemon juice.
This cocktail is easy to make and can be paired with a variety of bar snacks, such as Maple Glazed Pecans or Candied Lemon Slices. Whether you're hosting a party or just want to enjoy a delicious cocktail at home, the Maple Bourbon Sour is a must-try recipe that is sure to impress.
9. Light and Fizzy Bourbon Ginger Cocktail
The "Light and Fizzy Bourbon Ginger Cocktail" is a refreshing twist on the classic bourbon cocktail. It's perfect for those who want to sip on a light and fizzy drink during happy hour.
The combination of bourbon, ginger liqueur, lemon juice, and brown sugar syrup creates a unique flavor profile that is sure to please even the most discerning palate.
10. Cherry Bomb
Cherry Bomb is a refreshing Bourbon and Lemon Cocktail made with fresh cherries, bourbon, vanilla, maple syrup, lemon juice, and club soda. The combination of these ingredients creates a unique and delicious flavor that is perfect for any summer gathering.
The fresh cherries and bourbon provide a rich and sweet taste, while the lemon juice and club soda give the cocktail a refreshing twist. If you are a fan of Bourbon and Lemon cocktails, Cherry Bomb is a must-try!
11. Lemon Maple Bourbon Cocktail
The Lemon Maple Bourbon Cocktail is a unique and flavorful twist on a classic bourbon cocktail. This handcrafted cocktail features the perfect combination of sweet and sour with a hint of rosemary. The use of Rye Barrel-Aged maple syrup adds a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with any bourbon of your choice.
The Lemon Maple Bourbon Cocktail is a must-try for any bourbon lover looking for a new and exciting cocktail to add to their repertoire. Its refreshing yet bold taste makes it the perfect drink for any occasion. So, if you're looking to impress your guests or just want to treat yourself to a delicious cocktail, be sure to give the Lemon Maple Bourbon Cocktail a try.
12. Rosemary Maple Bourbon Sour
The Rosemary Maple Bourbon Sour is a unique and flavorful twist on the classic Bourbon Sour cocktail. The addition of rosemary and maple syrup adds a subtle sweetness and herbal note to the drink, while the lemon juice provides a refreshing tartness.
This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a well-balanced drink with a hint of complexity. The recipe is easy to follow and the end result is a beautiful and delicious cocktail that is sure to impress. If you're looking for a new and exciting way to enjoy your bourbon, give the Rosemary Maple Bourbon Sour a try.
13. Bourbon and Sage Cocktail
The Bourbon and Sage Cocktail is a refreshing and aromatic drink that is perfect for bourbon lovers. This cocktail is made with only three ingredients: bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and sage-infused simple syrup. The earthy and aromatic flavor of sage complements the bourbon and lemon juice perfectly, making this cocktail a must-try.
The garnish of a baby sprig of sage adds an adorable touch to the drink. The recipe is easy to make, and the resulting syrup is deeply flavored. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to try something new and exciting.
14. Whiskey Sour
Whiskey Sour is a classic cocktail that perfectly balances the sweetness of bourbon with the tartness of fresh lemon juice. This sophisticated cocktail can be made with or without egg white, and a splash of fresh orange juice can add an extra layer of flavor.
The key to a great Whiskey Sour is using high-quality bourbon and fresh lemon juice. Whether you prefer it straight or on the rocks, this cocktail is sure to impress. So, if you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail that will impress your guests, give the Whiskey Sour a try.
15. Basin Street Cocktail
The Basin Street Cocktail is a prohibition-era bourbon cocktail that offers a refreshing twist to the classic bourbon and lemon combination. This citrus-heavy cocktail is perfect for warm summer days, but it can also be enjoyed year-round as a pre-dinner cocktail or after-dinner sip. The key to making this cocktail stand out is the bourbon you choose.
A higher proofed, heavy bourbon like Booker's will give you an oakier and earthier cocktail, while a lighter and sweeter bourbon like Larceny or Maker's Mark will create a lighter and sweeter cocktail. If you're looking for a simple, tasty, and refreshing cocktail, the Basin Street Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
16. Boulevardier Cocktail
The Boulevardier Cocktail is a classic French cocktail made with bourbon whiskey, vermouth, Campari, and a twist of orange peel. This variation adds cognac and a lemon peel for a more sophisticated, fruity, and citrusy flavor.
It's similar to a Manhattan but smoother and more bitter. The addition of lemon peel adds a refreshing twist, making it perfect for a summer evening. Overall, it's a must-try for any bourbon lover looking for a unique twist on a classic cocktail.
17. Whiskey Lemonade
Whiskey Lemonade is a refreshing and sweet cocktail that is spiked with whiskey. It is made with a honey simple syrup and fresh mint, which gives it a unique and complex flavor. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to enjoy a sweet and refreshing drink with a bit of a kick.
The use of locally sourced ingredients, including High West Whiskey, adds to the appeal of this cocktail. If you're looking for a unique and delicious cocktail to try, Whiskey Lemonade is definitely worth a taste.
18. Bourbon Raspberry Cocktail
The Bourbon Raspberry Cocktail is a delightful blend of bourbon whiskey, fresh raspberry syrup, lemon and orange juice, and a splash of club soda. This easy-to-make cocktail is perfect for those who love fruity and refreshing drinks with a hint of bourbon.
The raspberry syrup adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the cocktail, while the bourbon gives it a smooth and warm finish. This cocktail is a great option for those who want to try something new and exciting with their bourbon. So, if you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail to impress your guests, the Bourbon Raspberry Cocktail is definitely worth a try!
19. Bourbon Rosemary Cocktail
The Bourbon Rosemary Cocktail is a perfect drink for those who love a rich and flavorful bourbon-based cocktail. With its homemade rosemary syrup, it's a perfect drink for fall and winter. The cocktail has a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, thanks to the addition of lemon juice and a dash of maple syrup.
The cocktail is topped with club soda and served over ice, making it a refreshing drink that can be enjoyed any time of the day. If you're a fan of bourbon-based cocktails, the Bourbon Rosemary Cocktail is a must-try, and it's definitely worth adding to your list of go-to cocktails.
20. Smoked Old Thyme Lemonade
If you're looking for a unique twist on a classic Old Fashioned, the Smoked Old Thyme Lemonade is a must-try. This cocktail combines the smoky flavor of bourbon with a thyme-infused simple syrup and fresh lemon juice, creating a refreshing and complex taste.
What sets this cocktail apart is the use of a cocktail smoker kit, which infuses the drink with a rich wood flavor that elevates the overall experience. The use of fresh ingredients, such as the thyme and lemon, also adds a layer of brightness that balances out the smokiness of the bourbon. Overall, the Smoked Old Thyme Lemonade is a delicious and innovative take on a classic cocktail that is sure to impress.
21. Bourbon Smash Cocktail
The Bourbon Smash Cocktail is a refreshing and seasonal twist on the classic whiskey smash recipe, perfect for summertime enjoyment. This cocktail is a mixture of fresh fruit and the zing of cinnamon, combined with bourbon and a bit of club soda.
The drink is sweetened with simple syrup, berries, and herbs, resulting in a strong yet deliciously balanced flavor. The Bourbon Smash is a great choice for those who love the rich, rustic flavors of bourbon and fresh fruit. If you're looking for a unique and refreshing cocktail to enjoy during the summer months, the Bourbon Smash is definitely worth a try.
22. Honey & Hearth Cocktail
The Honey & Hearth Cocktail is a bright and herbaceous bourbon cocktail that gin drinkers will love too. It has notes of smoke and spice with a boozy kick that is sure to please. This cocktail is adapted with permission from The Daisy in New York City and is a must-try for any bourbon lover.
The addition of yellow chartreuse adds a unique flavor profile that pairs well with the bourbon and lemon. If you're looking for a new cocktail to try, the Honey & Hearth should definitely be on your list.
23. French 95
The French 95 is a refreshing twist on the classic French 75 cocktail. Made with bourbon, lemon juice, and prosecco, it has a light and effervescent quality that's perfect for any occasion.
The prosecco adds a subtle sweetness that balances out the tartness of the lemon juice, while the bourbon provides a smooth and smoky finish. It's a sophisticated yet approachable cocktail that's a must-try for anyone looking to expand their bourbon and lemon repertoire.
24. Lavender Lemonade Cocktail
The Lavender Lemonade Cocktail is a refreshing and elevated twist on the classic lemonade. This cocktail combines freshly squeezed lemonade with a homemade lavender simple syrup and a splash of vodka for a boozy kick. The use of lemon peel in the lemonade adds a rich and creamy flavor that is unlike anything you have ever tasted before.
The lavender simple syrup infuses the cocktail with a sweet and floral aroma that is perfect for sipping by the pool on a warm weekend. The recipe may seem intimidating, but it is surprisingly easy to make with a few culinary techniques. If you're looking for a unique and delicious cocktail to impress your guests, the Lavender Lemonade Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
25. Hibiscus Bourbon Cocktail
The Hibiscus Bourbon Cocktail is a unique and flavorful twist on the classic bourbon and lemon cocktail. This cocktail combines the tropical flavors of hibiscus and orgeat syrup with the warming notes of bourbon and the acidity of lemon juice.
The subtle floral notes of the hibiscus powder add a delicate aroma and taste to the cocktail, while the orgeat syrup brings a sweet and tropical flavor. The crushed ice gives it a tiki feel, making it perfect for sipping on a warm summer day. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking for a refreshing and flavorful bourbon and lemon cocktail with a twist.
26. Bourbon and Fig Jam With Orange Liqueur Cocktail
The Bourbon and Fig Jam with Orange Liqueur Cocktail is a must-try for cocktail lovers. This cocktail is perfect for the cooler months of the year, with a combination of bourbon, fig jam, orange, lemon, and honey that will warm you up from the inside out.
The use of fig jam adds a unique sweetness to the drink. It's a sipping cocktail that calls for a fire and great conversation, and it's sure to impress your guests.
27. Blackberry Bourbon Lemonade
"Blackberry Bourbon Lemonade" is a handcrafted cocktail that combines the rich flavor of bourbon with the tartness of lemons and the sweetness of blackberries. Made with brown sugar syrup, this cocktail has a caramel flavor that complements the bourbon perfectly.
A toasted lemon wheel and a fresh blackberry with a sprig of basil make for a beautiful and tasty garnish. If you're looking for a refreshing and flavorful drink to enjoy with friends or family, be sure to give "Blackberry Bourbon Lemonade" a try.
28. Pimm's Lemon Crush
The Pimm's Lemon Crush cocktail is a refreshing and balanced drink that combines the botanical flavor of Pimm's with the boldness of bourbon and the sweet-tart taste of citrus syrup. The candied mixed peel syrup adds a unique twist to the cocktail, making it a great option for those who love experimenting with different flavors.
The cocktail is easily adaptable to suit anyone's taste, and the balance between the sweet and tart flavors makes it a perfect drink for any occasion. If you're looking for a delicious and unique bourbon and lemon cocktail, the Pimm's Lemon Crush is definitely worth a try.
