Bourbon is a classic American whiskey that has been around for centuries. Its rich, smoky flavor has made it a popular choice among whiskey lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike.
Whether you prefer it neat, on the rocks, or mixed in a cocktail, bourbon is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
As a bartender, I have had the pleasure of experimenting with different bourbon cocktail recipes over the years.
From classic Old Fashioneds to modern twists like the Bourbon Sour, there is no shortage of delicious cocktails that can be made with this beloved spirit.
But what makes a great bourbon cocktail? Is it the quality of the bourbon itself, or the ingredients used to mix it?
Is it the balance of flavors, or the presentation of the drink? As with any cocktail, the answer is all of the above.
In this blog post, I will be sharing some of my favorite bourbon cocktail recipes, along with tips and tricks for making them perfectly every time.
Whether you're a seasoned bourbon drinker or a newcomer to the world of whiskey, there is sure to be a recipe on this list that will become your new go-to drink. So sit back, grab a glass, and let's explore the wonderful world of bourbon cocktails together.
1. Cherry Bomb
Cherry Bomb is a Bourbon Cocktail that is sure to pack a punch. Made with fresh cherries, rich bourbon, vanilla, maple syrup, lemon juice, and a splash of club soda, this cocktail is the perfect way to end a long, hot summer day.
The combination of flavors and ingredients creates a refreshing and vibrant drink that is sure to impress. Whether you're a bourbon lover or just looking for a delicious cocktail to try, Cherry Bomb is definitely worth a taste. So why not give it a try and see for yourself why it's one of our favorites?
2. Bourbon Manhattan Cocktail
The Bourbon Manhattan Cocktail is a classic drink that has been enjoyed for many years. This cocktail is made with Kentucky straight bourbon, sweet vermouth, and spiced cherry bitters. The drink is a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors, making it a favorite among bourbon lovers.
The cocktail is traditionally served in a double old fashioned glass with a cherry garnish. The drink has a smooth and rich taste that is perfect for sipping on a relaxing evening. The Bourbon Manhattan Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves a good bourbon drink.
3. Maple Old Fashioned
The Maple Old Fashioned is a delightful twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail. This sweet and delicious cocktail is perfect for the fall season and is sure to impress your guests. The cocktail is made with bourbon, bitters, and a splash of maple syrup, which gives it a unique flavor that is both sweet and boozy.
The cocktail is garnished with an orange slice or peel and a cocktail cherry, which adds a nice touch of color and flavor. If you're a fan of bourbon cocktails, this is definitely one to try. So, raise a glass to the turnings of the season and enjoy this tasty cocktail!
4. Maple Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail
The Maple Cranberry Bourbon Cocktail is a perfect blend of tart and sweet flavors that make it a must-try during the holiday season. This cocktail is made with fresh cranberries, maple syrup, bourbon, and cranberry juice, and topped with seltzer water or club soda.
The garnishes of fresh rosemary and cranberries add a festive touch to the drink. Even if you are not a fan of bourbon, this cocktail is worth a try as the maple and cranberry flavors complement each other perfectly. Give this cocktail a shot at your next holiday gathering and impress your guests with its unique taste.
5. Brown Derby
The Brown Derby is a classic bourbon cocktail that has been around since the early 1930s. It's a perfect balance of fresh grapefruit juice and honey syrup that complements the bourbon perfectly. The cocktail is refreshing, easy to make, and perfect for brunch or any time of day.
Its origins are shifty, but one thing is for sure, it tastes great! If you're a bourbon fan looking for a new cocktail to try, the Brown Derby is definitely worth a shot. So, grab a cocktail shaker, a jigger, a barspoon, a strainer, and a martini or coupe glass, and give this cocktail a try. You won't be disappointed!
6. Pine Old Fashioned
The Pine Old Fashioned is a unique twist on the classic bourbon cocktail, perfect for the winter season. Made with a subtle pine simple syrup, Heritage Distilling's Elk Rider Bourbon, and Angostura Bitters, this cocktail has a warm and cozy flavor profile with hints of honey, cinnamon, and baking spices.
The pine syrup adds a subtle and refreshing twist to the traditional Old Fashioned, making it a great option for those looking for something new and exciting. If you're a fan of bourbon cocktails and want to try something different, the Pine Old Fashioned is definitely worth a try.
7. Manhattan Cocktail
The Manhattan Cocktail is a classic bourbon cocktail that has stood the test of time. Made with bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters, this sophisticated cocktail is not overly sweet and has a refined taste. The addition of orange peel adds a subtle citrus note that complements the bourbon perfectly.
While this cocktail may seem like something your dad would drink, it's making a comeback and is a must-try for any bourbon lover. Don't be afraid to splurge on a good quality bourbon for this cocktail, as it's the star ingredient. If you're looking for a cocktail that's easy to make and will impress your guests, the Manhattan Cocktail is a great choice.
8. Cider and Maple Old Fashioned
The Cider and Maple Old Fashioned is a perfect fall and winter cocktail with a unique twist on the classic old fashioned recipe. It combines apple cider, pure maple syrup, and Four Roses Single Barrel bourbon to create a delicious and refreshing drink.
The Rye Barrel-Aged Maple Syrup used in this recipe adds an extra layer of flavor. It's easy to make and can be customized to your liking. If you love bourbon-based drinks, this cocktail is a must-try.
9. Amaretto Old Fashioned
The Amaretto Old Fashioned is a twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail. This version adds a complex and nutty flavor to the traditional blend of bourbon, sugar, and bitters by incorporating amaretto liqueur. The use of maple syrup instead of sugar adds a local touch and balances out the flavors.
The cocktail is best served in a short glass with a wide rim and a robust base, and with large ice cubes to prevent quick dilution. The Amaretto Old Fashioned is a simple yet delicious cocktail that is perfect for those who want to try something new while still enjoying the classic taste of bourbon.
10. Man O' War Bourbon Cocktail
The Man O' War Bourbon Cocktail is a twist on the classic Manhattan, named after a legendary racing horse. With a balance of acidity from lemon juice and depth from Luxardo Maraschino Cherry syrup, this cocktail is a must-try for bourbon lovers.
The key to making it stand out is using the right cherries. If you're looking for a boozy and delicious cocktail that tastes like winning, the Man O' War Bourbon Cocktail is the perfect choice.
11. Bourbon Manhattan
The Bourbon Manhattan is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. Made with bourbon whiskey, sweet Italian vermouth, and bitters, this cocktail is rich, sweet, and smoky. It's the perfect drink to warm you up on a cold night. The key to making the perfect Bourbon Manhattan is finding the right balance between the smoky, sweet burn of the bourbon and the sweet, herbaceousness of the vermouth.
While there are many variations of this cocktail, the classic 2:1 ratio of bourbon to vermouth is still the best. If you're a fan of bourbon, then you don't want to miss out on this cocktail. Give it a try and see why it's one of the best Bourbon cocktails out there!
12. Perfect Manhattan Cocktail
The Perfect Manhattan Cocktail is a classic drink that every whiskey lover should try. This cocktail is made with Bourbon, vermouth, bitters, and cherry juice. It's easy to make and perfect for enjoying with friends. Legend has it that this cocktail was invented in the 1870s by Dr. Ian Marshall at the Manhattan Club in New York City.
Since then, it has become a fashionable drink that is enjoyed by many. The Perfect Manhattan Cocktail is a sophisticated and delicious drink that is perfect for any occasion. If you love whiskey, then you must try this cocktail!
13. Hibiscus Bourbon Cocktail
The Hibiscus Bourbon Cocktail is a unique and refreshing take on a classic bourbon cocktail. With the addition of hibiscus flower powder and almond orgeat syrup, this cocktail has a tropical twist that transports you to a sunny beach. The subtle floral notes of the hibiscus powder are balanced perfectly with the sweet and nutty flavor of the orgeat syrup, while the bourbon adds a warming kick.
This cocktail is perfect for any season, whether you want to pretend it's summer or warm up during the colder months. If you're looking for a new and exciting bourbon cocktail to try, the Hibiscus Bourbon Cocktail is definitely worth a sip.
14. Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is a classic bourbon cocktail that has been around since the mid-1800s. It is considered the first cocktail and is listed as one of the unforgettables by the International Bartenders Association.
The cocktail is bold, slightly sweet, and has a hint of citrus flavor that makes it perfect for every occasion. It is a straightforward cocktail that involves no shaking, no straining, and all done in one glass. The Old Fashioned is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time and is a must-try for any bourbon lover.
15. Smoked Peach Maple Bourbon Smash
The Smoked Peach Maple Bourbon Smash is a perfect cocktail for the fall season. It combines the sweet and juicy flavor of grilled peaches with the smoky and warm taste of Knob Creek's Smoked Maple Bourbon Whisky. The addition of 100% pure Canadian maple syrup, fresh thyme, spicy ginger beer, fresh lemon juice, and a dash of bitters make this cocktail a perfect balance of sweet and spicy.
The cocktail is served over ice and garnished with grilled peach slices, fresh thyme, and edible flowers. If you're looking for a cozy and seasonal cocktail that's perfect for autumn, the Smoked Peach Maple Bourbon Smash is definitely worth a try.
16. Black Cherry Bourbon Cola Smash
The Black Cherry Bourbon Cola Smash is a refreshing and simple cocktail that is perfect for hot summer evenings.
The combination of cherries, cola, bourbon, and cherry brandy creates a delicious and popular drink that is sure to impress your guests. It's easy to make and perfect for any occasion, so why not give it a try and see for yourself?
17. Perfect Old Fashioned
The Perfect Old Fashioned is a classic whiskey cocktail that has been around for centuries. It is made with whiskey, sugar, bitters, and ice.
The addition of fruit and muddling of the fruit with the whiskey is a more recent addition to the recipe. The cocktail is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste. It is a simple yet flavorful cocktail that is perfect for any occasion.
18. Bourbon Old Fashioned
The Bourbon Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. Made with bourbon, sugar, bitters, orange, and a cherry, this cocktail has a complex flavor profile that can be tailored to your taste preferences.
The recipe has been perfected by testing different sugars, bourbons, cherries, and bitters to find the best combination. The result is a cocktail that is balanced, flavorful, and perfect for celebrating any occasion. Whether you are a bourbon aficionado or just looking for a delicious cocktail, the Bourbon Old Fashioned is a must-try.
19. Cuban Old Fashioned
The Cuban Old Fashioned is a unique twist on the classic old fashioned cocktail, with a caffeine kick from Cuban coffee. This bourbon-based cocktail is made with bitters and a twist of citrus rind, and the addition of Cuban espresso simple syrup gives it a nutty, slightly spicy, and sweet flavor.
The use of Old Forester 86 Proof Bourbon adds a bold yet smooth taste to the drink. Even if you're not a coffee lover, this cocktail is worth trying for its unique flavor profile. The Cuban Old Fashioned is a perfect drink for bourbon enthusiasts who are looking for something different and exciting.
20. Bourbon Sidecar
The Bourbon Sidecar is a variation of the classic Sidecar cocktail that replaces brandy with bourbon whiskey. The drink has a spicy and sweet finish that sets it apart from its fruity cousin. The cocktail is easy to make and skips the sugar rim, making it a refreshing and citrus-forward drink that can be enjoyed anytime and any season.
The use of Cointreau instead of Triple Sec adds a well-balanced orange perfume flavor. Adding rum to the Bourbon Sidecar turns it into the classic Between the Sheets cocktail, which features rum and Cognac together. If you're a fan of sour cocktails, the Bourbon Sidecar is a must-try.
21. Coffee Old Fashioned
The Coffee Old Fashioned is a unique twist on the classic bourbon cocktail that is perfect for those who love the combination of coffee and bourbon. This cocktail recipe uses strong cold coffee and homemade brown sugar syrup, which gives it a rich and deep flavor. It is a great after-dinner drink and a perfect way to enjoy a bourbon nightcap.
The cocktail is simple to make and does not require any additional syrupy liqueurs, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer a less sweet cocktail. The garnish of cocktail cherries and/or an orange peel adds a touch of elegance to the drink. Overall, the Coffee Old Fashioned is a must-try for bourbon lovers who want to explore new flavors and enjoy a delicious cocktail.
22. Delicious Chocolate Old Fashioned
The "Delicious Chocolate Old Fashioned" is a must-try cocktail for any bourbon lover who has a sweet tooth. This cocktail is perfect for National Chocolate Day, or any day when you want to indulge in a rich and decadent drink. The Ballotin Whiskey Original Chocolate is the star of the show, adding a lush blend of dark chocolate notes and whiskey flavors to the classic old fashioned.
The addition of orange bitters gives it a subtle citrusy kick, while the chocolate rim and orange peel garnish make it extra fancy and decadent. This cocktail is perfect for sipping on a cozy night in or impressing guests at a party. Give it a try and let the flavors dance on your palate.
23. Whiskey Lemon Cocktail
The Whiskey Lemon Cocktail is a refreshing and flavorful drink that blends bourbon, lemon, and ginger with a hint of rosemary-infused simple syrup.
It's perfect for showcasing your bartending skills and impressing your guests with a unique and delicious drink. With its complex flavor profile and refreshing taste, it's a must-try for anyone who loves bourbon and wants to try something new.
24. The Scofflaw
If you're a bourbon lover looking for a classic cocktail with a bit of history, look no further than "The Scofflaw". This drink was named after those who drank illegally during the Prohibition era, and it's easy to see why it was so popular. The combination of bourbon, dry vermouth, lemon juice, and grenadine (or pomegranate molasses) creates a perfectly balanced drink that's both sweet and sour.
While the original recipe calls for straining the cocktail into a chilled glass, you can also enjoy it on the rocks if you prefer. The Scofflaw is a strong drink, so sip it slowly and savor every sip. Trust us, this is a cocktail that you'll want to share with your friends and bartenders alike.
25. Godfather Cocktail
The Godfather Cocktail is a classic drink that has made a comeback in recent years. It's a perfect combination of whiskey and Amaretto liqueur, making it a great choice for those who want to try whiskey but don't drink it often.
The Ameretto balances the whiskey's heat very nicely, and the Luxardo Cherries add a complex touch to the drink. The cocktail can be made with either scotch or bourbon, and it's a strong drink that should be sipped and savored. If you're a fan of classic cocktails, the Godfather Cocktail is a must-try.
26. Blood Orange Boulevardier Cocktail
The Blood Orange Boulevardier Cocktail is a sophisticated twist on the classic Campari cocktail. It's a perfect drink for cooler days, with a splash of sweet-tart blood orange juice adding another layer of flavor to the already delicious bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari mix.
The drink is a beautiful deep red color, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. The cocktail is perfect for sipping slowly in front of a warm fire, and the addition of a flamed orange rind garnish adds an extra touch of elegance. If you're a fan of bourbon cocktails, the Blood Orange Boulevardier is definitely worth trying.
27. Busted Pipe
The Busted Pipe cocktail is a warming and bittersweet drink that combines amaro and bourbon. It's perfect for sipping and has a flavor profile similar to an Old Fashioned and a Paper Plane. Created during the Deep Freeze of 2021, this cocktail has become a favorite among those looking for a strong yet easy-to-sip drink with a warming sweetness.
The addition of a large ice cube takes this cocktail to another level, making it a great choice for cozy nights in or low-key dinner parties. If you're a fan of bourbon cocktails, the Busted Pipe is definitely worth a try.
28. Bitter Eastern Sour Cocktail
The Bitter Eastern Sour Cocktail is a perfect fall twist on the classic Whiskey Sour. This cocktail combines the tangy flavor of citrus with the sweetness of orgeat and the robustness of bourbon. The addition of Campari gives it a slightly bitter edge that makes it a perfect fall drink.
The pop of red from the Campari makes it visually appealing and reminds us of the changing leaves. This cocktail is perfect for those who are looking for a warming cocktail as the temperatures start to cool down. If you're a fan of Bourbon cocktails, you definitely don't want to miss out on trying the Bitter Eastern Sour Cocktail.
