Category Archives: Cocktail Recipes

Tried and true whiskey cocktail recipes, with an emphasis on bourbon and rye.

Maple Pecan Old Fashioned

October 14, 2023 Andrew Leave a comment

A very easy-to-make variation off of the Old Fashioned cocktail. This recipe is perfect for fall, and will be one of your favorite drinks of all time.

Fall is the best season. There’s no question about it. Crisp air, golden hues, and college football. Nothing embodies the warmth and richness of this season more than a well-crafted cocktail. If your heart beats a little faster at the mention of the classic Old Fashioned, and you have a sweet spot for maple and pecans (two of the greatest autumnal delights), then you’re in for a treat!

Prepare to cozy up with a glass of Maple Pecan Old Fashioned, a perfect symphony of the season’s finest offerings with the timeless embrace of bourbon. If you want to eschew the fall flavors, the Classic Old Fashioned is a fantastic drink. Here’s our take on the Classic Old Fashioned Recipe.

Why Maple and Pecans?

The silky sweetness of maple syrup marries splendidly with the depth of bourbon. Now, throw in the nutty richness of pecans, and you have a match made in autumn heaven. The duo elevates the classic Old Fashioned, making it resonate with the very essence of fall.

Tips:

If you’re keen on upping the pecan flavor, consider infusing your bourbon with toasted pecans. Simply add toasted pecans to your bourbon, let it sit for a few days, and strain. This will give your cocktail a deeper, nuttier edge.

Whiskey Cocktail Variations:

If the Old Fashioned has piqued your interest, why not delve deeper? Here are a few more whiskey cocktail inspirations:

There will be many more fall cocktail ideas coming from this website, so stay tuned!

With these easy steps and a handful of nature’s finest ingredients, the Maple Pecan Old Fashioned is bound to become your go-to fall drink. It’s perfect for those fireside chats, holiday gatherings, or simply when you wish to reminisce about the beauty of autumn. And remember, the world of whiskey cocktails is vast and inviting, so don’t stop exploring!

Maple Pecan Old Fashioned

A very easy-to-make variation off of the Old Fashioned cocktail. This recipe is perfect for fall and crisp weather.

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword fall drink, maple, old fashioned, pecan

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Servings 1 serving

Calories 180kcal

Equipment

1 Cocktail Shaker

Ingredients

2 oz bourbon Woodford Reserve is great here
½ oz maple syrup Grade A is best here
2 dashes Angostura Bitters
Orange Twist for zest and garnish
Toasted Pecans for garnish and flavor

Instructions

In a mixing glass with ice, combine the bourbon, maple syrup, and Angostura bitters.
Stir gently until the mixture is chilled.
Strain the concoction into a rocks glass filled with a large ice cube.
Express the orange twist over the drink, ensuring those zesty oils drop into the glass, then toss it in.
Garnish with a couple of toasted pecans.
Sip, savor, and let the autumnal warmth wrap around you.

Cocktail Recipes

Cranberry Bourbon Smash Cocktail

October 14, 2023 Andrew Leave a comment

This is an easy cocktail recipe for a delicious fall drink that you can spin up in 5-10 minutes. This is bound to be a huge hit at your next fall party, or as a sipper during College Football Saturdays.

The crisp fall air calls for heartwarming drinks, and what evokes the autumn spirit more than RICH CRANBERRIES (seriously, they’re a fall staple) combined with the cozy embrace of bourbon? If your love for whiskey-based concoctions knows no bounds, this Cranberry Bourbon Smash is about to be your new autumn obsession! It’s a delightful medley of tart and sweet, punctuated with the robustness of bourbon, making this cocktail the ultimate fall indulgence.

Why Cranberry Juice?

While fresh cranberries offer an authentic tartness, working with them can be a tad bit challenging and sometimes unpredictable. Opting for cranberry juice provides a convenient and consistent flavor profile. We did contemplate crafting this with muddled fresh cranberries, but the smoothness and ease of the juice won the day.

Cranberry Cocktail Tips and Tricks:

Simple syrup is, well, simple to make. So you should make your own. You can use this excellent recipe, or to craft simple syrup, blend equal parts water and granulated sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar vanishes, then let it cool off before incorporating it into your drink.

Fall Cocktail Variations:

For the whiskey enthusiasts out there who adore experimenting, check out these enticing variations:

With a handful of ingredients and a spirit for the season, the Cranberry Bourbon Smash is yours to relish. It’s the ideal companion for fireside chats, Thanksgiving dinners, or any event where autumn’s charm is celebrated. This drink is popular for fall and winter occasions alike.

Follow our fall cocktail series here.

Cranberry Bourbon Smash

An easy and quick cranberry bourbon cocktail recipe for a delicious fall drink that you can spin up in 5-10 minutes.

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword cranberry, fall drink, winter drink

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Servings 1 serving

Calories 226kcal

Equipment

1 Cocktail Shaker

Ingredients

2 oz bourbon
2 oz cranberry juice
½ oz simple syrup
½ oz lemon juice fresh
fresh cranberries garnish and flavor

Instructions

Fill a shaker with ice.
Pour in 2 oz of bourbon, 2 oz of cranberry juice, 1/2 oz of lemon juice, and 1/2 oz of simple syrup.
Shake enthusiastically for about 15 seconds to blend the ingredients perfectly.
Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
Garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary for that rustic touch.
Serve immediately and bask in the rich flavors of fall.

Cocktail Recipes

Classic Whiskey Sour Recipe

May 2, 2023 Andrew Leave a comment

If you’re looking for a classic cocktail that is easy to make and perfect for literally any occasion, look no further than the Whiskey Sour. This cocktail has been around for centuries and is still a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts today. This classic whiskey sour recipe is a staple for beginners and advanced cocktail makers alike.

In this recipe, we have you covered. We’ll be exploring how to make a delicious Whiskey Sour cocktail with bourbon, and also provide some seasonal variations that you can try out. As with every cocktail, selecting a premium spirit is key. For this cocktail, we used Buffalo Trace Bourbon & Eagle Rare Bourbon. We also love Luxardo cherries – the sweetness of the cherries contrasts perfectly with the acidity of the lemon juice in this recipe.

Seasonal Whiskey Sour Variations

One of the great things about the Whiskey Sour is that it is very versatile, and you can easily switch up the ingredients to make a seasonal variation. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Fall Variation: Apple Cider Whiskey Sour

Ingredients:

2 oz bourbon
3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
1/2 oz apple cider
1/2 oz honey
Ice
Apple slice and cinnamon stick for garnish

Instructions:

In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, lemon juice, apple cider, and honey.
Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 20 seconds.
Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice.
Garnish with an apple slice and cinnamon stick.

Whiskey Sour Variations

Winter Variation: Maple Whiskey Sour

Full Maple Whiskey Sour Recipe Here

2 oz bourbon
3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
1/2 oz maple syrup
1/4 oz triple sec
Ice
Orange twist for garnish

Instructions:

In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, lemon juice, maple syrup, and triple sec.
Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 20 seconds.
Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice.
Garnish with an orange twist.

Spring Variation: Grapefruit Whiskey Sour

Ingredients:

2 oz bourbon
3/4 oz fresh grapefruit juice
1/2 oz honey
1/4 oz Campari
Ice
Grapefruit twist for garnish

Instructions:

In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, grapefruit juice, honey, and Campari.
Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 20 seconds.
Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice.
Garnish with a grapefruit twist.

Summer Variation: Peach Whiskey Sour

Full peach whiskey sour recipe here.

Ingredients:

2 oz bourbon
3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
1/2 oz peach schnapps
1/2 oz simple syrup
Ice
Peach slice for garnish

Instructions:

In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, lemon juice, peach schnapps, and simple syrup.
Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 20 seconds.
Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice.
Garnish with a peach slice.

Another great summer variation: Bourbon Blackberry Sour

Classic Whiskey Sour

How to make a Classic Whiskey Sour cocktail with bourbon. This recipe is simple and an easy way to dip your toes in the world of whiskey sours. Complete with variations!

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword alcoholic drink, bourbon cocktail, cocktail, summer drink, whiskey cocktail, whiskey sour

Prep Time 1

Cook Time 5

Total Time 6

Servings 1

Calories 181kcal

Equipment

1 Cocktail Shaker

Ingredients

2 oz bourbon
¾ oz lemon juice fresh
½ oz simpe syrup
1 egg white optional
ice
1 lemon wedge for garnish

Instructions

In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
If using an egg white, add it to the shaker as well.
Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 20 seconds.
Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice.
Garnish with a lemon wedge and cherry.

Cocktail Recipes

Easy Summery Mint Julep Recipe

May 1, 2023 Andrew Leave a comment

The Mint Julep is a classic bourbon cocktail that’s synonymous with Southern hospitality and the Kentucky Derby. With a refreshing blend of sharp mint and oaky bourbon, this cocktail is perfect for a warm summer evening. In this recipe, we’ll share our favorite Mint Julep recipe, along with a few variations to try.

History of Mint Juleps and the Kentucky Derby

The Mint Julep has a long history with the Kentucky Derby, where it has been the official drink of the race since 1938. Every year, thousands of Mint Juleps are served at the event (a whopping 120,000 juleps are served every year!), and race-goers don their finest attire while sipping on the iconic cocktail.

If you’re hosting a Kentucky Derby party at home, be sure to have plenty of Mint Juleps on hand. To take things up a notch, consider making a large batch of Mint Julep punch, which can be served in a punch bowl with slices of fresh fruit for added flair.

Variations:

Peach Julep: Add a splash of peach liqueur or peach simple syrup to your Mint Julep for a sweet and fruity twist on this classic cocktail.

Berry Julep: Swap out the mint leaves for a handful of fresh berries, such as strawberries or raspberries. Muddle the berries with the simple syrup, then proceed with the rest of the recipe as written.

Ginger Julep: Add a few slices of fresh ginger to the muddling process for a spicy kick to your Mint Julep.

Classic Mint Julep Recipe

The Mint Julep is a classic bourbon cocktail that's synonymous with Southern hospitality and the Kentucky Derby. Filled with mint, bourbon, and sweet syrup, this is perfect for hot summer days.

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword alcoholic drink, bourbon cocktail, cocktail, kentucky derby drink, mint julep, summer drink

Prep Time 1

Cook Time 5

Total Time 6

Servings 1

Calories 156kcal

Equipment

1 Cocktail Shaker

Ingredients

2 oz broubon premium
1 oz simple syrup
crushed ice
4-5 fresh mint leaves

Instructions

Begin by gently muddling the mint leaves and simple syrup in the bottom of a Julep cup or a rocks glass.
Fill the cup with crushed ice, and add the bourbon.
Stir gently to combine.
Top with additional crushed ice and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.

Cocktail Recipes

Georgia Peach Bourbon Milkshake

April 24, 2023 Andrew Leave a comment

What could be better than the three greatest ingredients of the summer: Georgia peaches, bourbon, and ice cream? Summertime is all about sipping on something refreshing, and this Bourbon Peach Milkshake recipe is the perfect way to cool down during the heatwave! Sweet peaches and smooth vanilla ice cream combine with the rich flavors of bourbon to create a delicious and boozy treat that will leave you feeling satisfied and satisfied.

To make this indulgent dessert, follow below, and thank me later.

Georgia Peach Bourbon Milkshake

Georgia peaches and vanilla ice cream combine with the rich flavors of bourbon to create a delicious boozy treat.

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword alcoholic drink, bourbon cocktail, dessert, milkshake, peach

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 5

Total Time 10

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450kcal

Equipment

1 blender

Ingredients

2 cups vanilla ice cream
½ cup milk
¼ cup bourbon
1 peach
whipped cream garnish
slices peach garnish

Instructions

Begin by combining the ice cream, milk, bourbon, and sliced peaches in a blender.
Blend the mixture until it is smooth and creamy, adding more milk if necessary to achieve your desired consistency.
Once the milkshake is fully blended, pour it into a tall glass.
Garnish with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a fresh slice of peach.

Take a sip and savor the delicious flavors of fresh peaches, creamy vanilla, and smooth bourbon. This recipe is the perfect way to indulge in a summertime treat while still getting your whiskey fix.

Georgia Peach Bourbon Milkshake Tips and Tricks

When selecting ingredients for this recipe, it is important to choose high-quality ingredients to ensure the best possible flavor. We recommend using fresh, ripe peaches for the best taste, and opting for a smooth, flavorful bourbon like Maker’s Mark. If you prefer a less boozy milkshake, simply reduce the amount of bourbon used in the recipe.

In addition to being a delicious dessert, this Bourbon Peach Milkshake is also a great option for entertaining guests. Serve it up at your next summer BBQ or pool party for a unique and refreshing drink that your friends and family are sure to love.

If you couldn’t tell, we love peaches. Try our other fantastic peach-flavored cocktails. You won’t be sorry!

Georgia Peach Bourbon Milkshake Variations

Frosted Peach Whiskey Sour: Dairy-free and sour version of this cocktail. Equally refreshing for a summer day.

Peach Whiskey Sour: Base peachy whiskey sour. Make a jar of this for the front porch on a hot summer day.

Classic Whiskey Sour Recipe: Trusty ole whiskey sour recipe. You can’t go wrong with this. No frills.

As a bonus, here’s an absolutely delicious Old Fashioned Peach Ice Cream recipe you should check out! Keep the peach party going!

Overall, this Bourbon Peach Milkshake is the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of summer while still indulging in your love for whiskey. Give it a try and discover your new favorite summertime treat!

Cocktail Recipes

Watermelon Whiskey Sour Slush

April 21, 2023 Andrew Leave a comment

Summer is the perfect time to experiment with new cocktail recipes, and what spells summer more than FRESH WATERMELON (literally my favorite food) and an ice cold cocktail to cool down on a hot day? If you’re a fan of whiskey sour variations and love watermelon, you’ll love this Watermelon Whiskey Slush recipe! It’s a perfect combination of sweet and sour, with a kick of bourbon that makes this drink the ultimate summer cocktail.

Tips:

To make simple syrup, combine equal parts water and granulated sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then remove from heat and let cool before using. (I’m also a big fan of this simple syrup recipe, if you’re looking to make your own syrup.)

Why Watermelon Schnapps?

Using fresh watermelon for cocktails is great, but it can be messy and time-consuming, and add a strange grainy consistency to your cocktail. That’s why we recommend using watermelon schnapps instead. Not only does it have the same fresh and fruity taste, but it’s also a lot easier to work with. Plus, using watermelon schnapps will give you a more consistent flavor in your cocktails. We tried this recipe with fresh watermelon initially, but the consistency from the fiber in the watermelon itself made this cocktail a little awkward to handle.

Watermelon Schnapps may sound like an exotic ingredient, however you should be able to pretty easily find DeKuyper Pucker Watermelon Schnapps at many liquor stores.

Whiskey Sour Variations:

If you love whiskey sours and want to experiment with different variations, here are a few ideas:

View my entire Summer Drink Series here!

With just a few simple ingredients, you can make this Watermelon Whiskey Slush at home and impress your friends with your cocktail-making skills. It’s perfect for summer BBQs, pool parties, or any occasion where you want a refreshing drink. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations of the classic whiskey sour – you never know what delicious drink you might discover!

Watermelon Whiskey Sour Slush

Made with whiskey, watermelon schnapps, lemon juice, and ice, this cocktail is perfect for a hot summer day.

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword alcoholic drink, summer drink, watermelon, whiskey cocktail, whiskey sour

Cook Time 5

Total Time 5

Servings 1 serving

Calories 300kcal

Equipment

1 blender

Ingredients

2 cups ice
2 oz bourbon
1 oz lemon juice fresh
1 oz watermelon schnapps (we recommend DeKuyper Pucker Watermelon Schnapps)
1 oz simple syrup
watermelon slice for garnish

Instructions

In a blender, add 2 cups of ice and blend until crushed.
In a shaker, add 2 oz of bourbon, 1 oz of fresh lemon juice, 1 oz of watermelon schnapps, and 1 oz of simple syrup.
Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds.
Pour the cocktail over the crushed ice in the blender.
Blend until smooth.
Pour the Watermelon Whiskey Slush into a glass and garnish with a watermelon slice.

Cocktail Recipes

Blackberry Bourbon Bliss Lemonade

April 17, 2023 Andrew Leave a comment

Nothing screams summertime like a refreshing and fruity cocktail. This Blackberry Bourbon Bliss Lemonade is the perfect drink to sip on a hot day while lounging outside. Made with fresh blackberries, lemonade, and bourbon, this cocktail is sweet, tart, and oh-so-boozy.

The blackberry bliss bourbon lemonade is best enjoyed while sitting outside and soaking up some sun. The combination of blackberries, lemonade, and bourbon creates a perfectly balanced drink that is sweet, tart, and refreshing. And the addition of sparkling water adds a little extra pop to this already delicious cocktail.

When it comes to choosing a bourbon for the blackberry bliss bourbon lemonade, I recommend using Buffalo Trace. Its smooth, sweet flavor profile pairs perfectly with the tartness of the lemonade and the sweetness of the blackberries. Plus, it’s a great bourbon to have on hand for other cocktails or for sipping neat.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a little bit of fresh ginger to the cocktail shaker before shaking. The ginger adds a spicy kick to the drink that pairs surprisingly well with the blackberry and bourbon flavors.

Blackberry Bourbon Bliss Lemonade

Nothing screams summertime like a refreshing and fruity cocktail. This Blackberry Bourbon Bliss Lemonade is the perfect drink for hot days.

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword alcoholic drink, blackberry, bourbon cocktail, lemonade, whiskey cocktail

Cook Time 5

Total Time 5

Servings 1 serving

Calories 300kcal

Equipment

1 Cocktail Shaker

Ingredients

1 cup fresh blackberries
2 oz bourbon
1 cup lemonade
sparkling water Topo Chico is great here
mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

Start by muddling the blackberries in a cocktail shaker until they are broken down and juicy.
Next, add in the bourbon and lemonade. Give it a quick stir to combine.
Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine all of the flavors.
Fill a tall glass with ice and strain the mixture into the glass.
Top off the glass with sparkling water for a little fizz.
Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint leaves and a couple of fresh blackberries.
Enjoy your Blackberry Bourbon Bliss Lemonade!

Cocktail Recipes

Frosted Peach Whiskey Sour

April 16, 2023 Andrew Leave a comment

Are you looking for a cocktail that’s perfect for summer? Look no further than a frozen peach sour! This drink is a twist on a classic whiskey sour and combines the sweet and tangy flavors of peaches and lemon for a refreshing and delicious drink.

Note that this recipe is adapted from our hit Peach Whiskey Sour recipe.

This is the perfect cocktail for summer. It’s refreshing, delicious, and easy to make. Plus, you can make a big batch of peach simple syrup ahead of time so you can enjoy this drink all summer long. Give it a try and let us know what you think!

Frosted Peach Whiskey Sour

This drink is a twist on a classic whiskey sour and combines the sweet and tangy flavors of peaches for a refreshing and delicious cocktail.

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword alcoholic drink, peach, summer drink, whiskey cocktail, whiskey sour

Prep Time 25

Cook Time 5

Total Time 30

Servings 1 serving

Calories 230kcal

Equipment

1 saucepan for the peach simple syrup
1 blender

Ingredients

Frosted Peach Whiskey Sour

2 oz bourbon Maker's Mark is perfect for this
1 oz lemon juice fresh
1 oz peach simple syrup instructions below
½ cup frozen peaches
ice
peach slices and mint sprigs for garnish

Peach Simple Syrup

1 cup slices peaches
1 cup water
1 cup sugar

Instructions

Frosted Peach Whiskey Sour

In a blender, combine the bourbon, fresh lemon juice, peach simple syrup, and, frozen peaches. Blend until the mixture is smooth and frothy.
Add ice to the blender and blend again until the mixture is thick and slushy.
Pour the frozen peach sour into a glass and garnish with peach slices and mint sprigs.

Peach Simple Syrup Recipe

In a saucepan, combine the sliced peaches, water, and sugar.
Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the peaches have softened.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
Then, strain out the peaches and discard them.
You should be left with a clear peach simple syrup. Store the syrup in a jar in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it.

Cocktail Recipes

Logan Roy Scotch Sour

April 15, 2023 Andrew Leave a comment

Are you a fan of the hit HBO series “Succession”? If you’re anything like me, you’re probably obsessed with the Roy family and their lavish lifestyle. And what’s more luxurious than sipping on a fancy cocktail while watching the show? That’s why I’ve created the perfect cocktail to accompany your next “Succession” binge-watch: the Roy Family Sour.

I decided to go with Scotch as the core ingredient for this recipe to honor our favorite anti-hero: Logan Roy. As show nerds are all aware, Logan Roy was born in Scotland, and his scotch-based drink is a tribute to our dearly-departed patriarch.

Scotch Sour Flavor Profile:

The sweet and sour elements of this cocktail are perfectly balanced, making it a drink that’s both refreshing and complex. And the dash of orange bitters adds a subtle hint of spice that perfectly complements the scotch.

This drink is a spin on the classic whiskey sour, featuring the smooth and complex flavors of Lagavulin 16-year-old scotch. If you really don’t like the smoky taste of Islay Scotch and still really want a lavish cocktail, I highly recommend swapping in Macallan 12-year or Macallan 18-year scotch (if you can afford it). Macallan is much less smoky, and will still get you the flavor depth we know and love with scotch.

A note on honey syrup: This cocktail uses honey syrup, a relatively uncommon household cockail ingredient. Don’t let that intimidate you. Here’s how to make it:

To make honey syrup, combine equal parts honey and hot water in a mixing glass or jar. Stir until the honey is completely dissolved.

Logan Roy Scotch Sour

HBO's "Succession" may be over, but Logan Roy's legacy lives on in this delicious twist on a classic whiskey sour.

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword scotch, whiskey cocktail, whiskey sour

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Servings 1 serving

Calories 230kcal

Equipment

1 Cocktail Shaker
1 coup glass

Ingredients

2 oz Lagavulin 16-year-old Scotch or any comparable smoky scotch brand
1 oz lemon juice freshly squeezed
½ oz Luxardo Maraschino Liqeur
1 dash Angostura Bitters
Ice
Luxardo Maraschino cherry and lemon twist for garnish

Instructions

Combine the Lagavulin scotch, lemon juice, honey syrup, Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur, and Angostura bitters in a shaker.
Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to chill and dilute the cocktail.
Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass.
Garnish with a Luxardo Maraschino cherry and a lemon twist.

And there you have it – the perfect cocktail for any “Succession” fan is a Scotch Sour. Whether you’re watching the latest episode or re-watching the entire series, the Roy Family Sour is sure to elevate your viewing experience.

If you’re having a watch party, be sure to make a big batch of this cocktail – it’s sure to be a hit with all your fellow “Succession” fans. And if you’re feeling extra fancy, serve it in a rocks glass with a monogrammed napkin, just like the Roy family would. If you’re feeling extra-extra fancy and have some disposable income, you can also take a shot at mixing Hank Pierce’s Break Bumper, which will set you back something like $350 in raw ingredients for a cocktail alone.

If you want something less adventurous, check out our classic Whiskey Sour Recipe, and it’s even more delicious twin, the Peach Whiskey Sour.

So what are you waiting for? Grab a bottle of Lagavulin scotch and get shaking. The Roy Family Sour is the perfect drink to accompany your next “Succession” viewing party. Cheers!

Cocktail Recipes

Front Porch Bourbon Sweet Tea Recipe

April 14, 2023 Andrew Leave a comment

Nothing sounds more refreshing than drinking an ice-cold bourbon sweet tea outside on a blazing-hot summer afternoon.

We have you covered with an absolutely perfect recipe to get you through the summer. Look no further than Front Porch Bourbon Sweet Tea! This sweet tea is infused with the rich, smoky flavor of bourbon, making it the perfect drink for sipping on a lazy afternoon on the porch. I adapted this recipe from my Mom’s classic Georgia sweet tea recipe, and added a nice bourbon twist.

Remember, if you want to make this recipe truly southern-style, don’t be shy about the amount of sugar you add to the tea. If you want to go fancy on the tea you use, I love this blog post from Taste of Home about the best types of teabags to use for Southern sweet tea.

If your guests aren’t in a sweet tea mood, consider also making a pitcher of our Raspberry Bourbon Lemonade or ultra-summery and popular Peach Whiskey Sour.

Front Porch Bourbon Sweet Tea

Front Porch Bourbon Sweet Tea is a perfect combination of the classic southern sweet tea with the rich flavor of bourbon. This bourbon cocktail is the king of hot summer days.

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword alcoholic drink, bourbon cocktail, summer drink, sweet tea

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 5

Total Time 15

Servings 8 servings

Calories 300kcal

Equipment

1 kettle
1 large pitcher

Ingredients

6 black tea bags Use Lipton Black iced tea bags
1 cup bourbon Maker's Mark is great here
1 lemon
1 orange
ice
mint sprigs

Instructions

Bring 8 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Once the water has boiled, turn off the heat and add the tea bags. Steep for 5-7 minutes.
Remove the tea bags and stir in the sugar until it has completely dissolved.
Add the bourbon to the sweet tea and stir until well combined.
Add the lemon and orange slices to the tea and refrigerate until chilled.
Once the tea has chilled, fill glasses with ice and pour the sweet tea over the ice.
Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and enjoy!

Bourbon Sweet Tea Tips and Notes:

This recipe will be best if you let the tea chill for at least an hour before serving, however you can definitely drink this right after making and mixing the tea – you just might melt quite a bit of ice as you cool the drink down.
This recipe makes about 8 servings, so definitely have a pitcher on hand.
The orange in this recipe is the most controversial ingredient. Don’t feel shy about swapping the orange for an extra lemon. No one will judge.

Cocktail Recipes

Bourbon Blackberry Whiskey Sour

April 12, 2023 Andrew Leave a comment

This is one of the greatest summertime whiskey sour variations you’ll ever find. If you’re looking for a delicious and refreshing cocktail to sip on, or if you have way too many blackberries from your nearest pick-your-own farm, you can’t go wrong with a Blackberry Whiskey Sour. This recipe combines the sweetness (and tartness!!) of fresh blackberries with the bold flavor of whiskey, and a hint of citrus. In my opinion, this creates a perfectly balanced drink that’s perfect for the outdoors or your next beach vacation.

To make this cocktail, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients: fresh blackberries, whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and ice. The combination of blackberries and whiskey may seem unconventional, but trust me – it’s a match made in cocktail heaven! If you haven’t made a whiskey sour before, and want to try a base cocktail before you go into this variation, I highly recommend our basic whiskey sour recipe.

To start, muddle a handful of fresh blackberries in the bottom of a cocktail shaker. Add the whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup, along with a handful of ice. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds, until the cocktail is well mixed and chilled.

Next, strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with a fresh blackberry or two, and a sprig of fresh mint, if desired. And that’s it – you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Blackberry Whiskey Sour!

Bourbon Blackberry Sour

The Blackberry Whiskey Sour is a fruity and refreshing twist on a classic cocktail. Made with fresh blackberries, bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup, this drink is perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and full of flavor, it's sure to become a new favorite.

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword alcoholic drink, summer drink, whiskey cocktail, whiskey sour

Cook Time 5

Total Time 5

Servings 1

Calories 230kcal

Equipment

1 Cocktail Shaker
1 muddler

Ingredients

8 fresh blackberries
2 oz whiskey
1 oz lemon juice
1 oz simple syrup
fresh mint garnish
½ glass ice

Instructions

In a cocktail shaker, muddle the fresh blackberries.
Add the whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and ice.
Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds, until well mixed and chilled.
Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
Garnish with a fresh blackberry and a sprig of fresh mint, if desired.

Whiskey Sour Variations:

For a sweeter version, add an additional 1/2 oz. of simple syrup.
For a stronger version, add an additional 1 oz. of whiskey.
Sparkling Blackberry Whiskey Sour – Top off your Blackberry Whiskey Sour with 1/2 cup of a nice sparkling water like Topo Chico. This will make the drink wonderfully bubbly.
Blended Blackberry Whiskey Sour – Buy frozen blackberries (or freeze your handpicked berries), double the amount of blackberries you add to this cocktail, and blend with ice. Once the blackberries are broken up in your blender, add whiskey, simple syrup, and lemon juice.
Peach Whiskey Sour – You literally can’t get more summery than this. Our peach whiskey sour recipe is a great variation on this cocktail.
Maple Whiskey Sour – This variation provides a wonderful alternative sweetener to the Whiskey Sour, in the form of maple syrup. Maple Whiskey Sour recipe here.

Blackberry Whiskey Sour Tips:

Blackberries – I always recommend fresh-picked blackberries for this recipe. But if you don’t have these on-hand, go for frozen blackberries at the grocery store. Do not get non-frozed blackberries from the store unless you know exactly how long they’ve been sitting on the shelf. (Learning about the nutritional difference between frozen and fresh fruit is a fascinating rabbit hole).
Whiskey – I recommend using a mellow, wheated whiskey like Makers Mark or Weller Special Reserve (if you can get your hands on it). The flavor profile of many aged and oaky bourbons might class with the tartness of the blackberries. (Liquor.com has a great rundown of the best wheated bourbons to get here.)
Adjust the sweetness and strength of the cocktail to your liking.
Serve over ice for a refreshing summer cocktail.

So there you have it – a delicious and easy recipe for a Blackberry Whiskey Sour that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re sipping it on your front porch on a warm summer evening, or serving it up to guests at your next dinner party, this cocktail is the perfect way to enjoy the bold flavor of whiskey with a fruity twist.

Cocktail Recipes

Raspberry Bourbon Lemonade

April 12, 2023 Andrew Leave a comment

Do you like poolside cocktails? If so, this might be the ultimate poolside cocktail to add to your go-to list. Oh, and it’s a VERY easy cocktail to make.

On a hot summer day, nothing beats a refreshing drink to cool you down. And this bourbon raspberry lemonade is just the perfect drink for that. It is a blend of fresh raspberries, tart lemon, and a splash of your favorite bourbon. It’s easy to make and oh so delicious.

For ingredients, use a mild wheated bourbon like Maker’s Mark or Weller Special Reserve (if you can get ahold of it). As for raspberries, we are always fans of fresh-picked berries…. although frozen raspberries (from a nice brand) are always a decent substitute. This is the perfect partner to our Blackberry Bourbon Sour if you want to keep the party going.

Our recipe involves a single-serve variation and a pitcher variation. I highly recommend going with the pitcher variation because the puree for this drink absolutely works better if you make it in a larger portion. If not, the single serve version is fantastic!

The raspberry puree is central to this recipe. If you have a bunch of leftover raspberries from a pick-your-own adventure this summer, you should definitely consider making raspberry syrup so you can make this cocktail a year-round phenomena. Here’s a great raspberry syrup recipe if you’re interested!

Raspberry Bourbon Lemonade

The raspberry bourbon drink is a perfect cocktail for hot summer days. It's easy to make, and is perfect as a pitcher drink for parties.

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword alcoholic drink, bourbon cocktail, lemonade, summer drink

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 5

Total Time 35

Servings 6 servings

Calories 230kcal

Equipment

1 blender to puree the raspbeeries
1 small saucepan
1 large pitcher

Ingredients

1 cup fresh rapberries
1 cup fresh lemon juice
½ cup sugar
4 cups water
1 cup bourbon
ice
lemon slices

Instructions

In a blender, puree the raspberries until smooth.
In a small saucepan, heat the lemon juice and sugar over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved.
In a large pitcher, mix together the raspberry puree, lemon syrup, and water.
Add the bourbon and stir well.
Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
To serve, fill glasses with ice and pour in the bourbon raspberry lemonade. Garnish with lemon slices and raspberries.

Raspberry Bourbon Lemonade Variations and Tips:

This recipe makes about 6-8 servings, depending on the size of your glasses.
Sparkling Raspberry Bourbon Lemonade: Substitute portions of the water in this recipe for a nice sparkling water (like Topo Chico) for a fizzy version of this recipe.
Frozen Raspberry Bourbon Lemonade: Puree frozen raspberries with ice and the cocktail ingredients for an absolutely delicious frozen version of this drink. Be careful – it is WAY too good.
Peach Whiskey Sour: Another great summer variation of a similar recipe. The peach whiskey sour has been a hit for everyone I’ve served it to! Peach Whiskey Sour Recipe here.

Cocktail Recipes

Whiskey Sour Variation: Maple Whiskey Sour

April 11, 2023 Andrew Leave a comment

If you’re a fan of whiskey and maple syrup, then this Maple Whiskey Sour recipe is the perfect drink for you! This cocktail is the perfect blend of sweet and sour, and it’s sure to impress your friends at your next gathering. It’s super easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients. If you want to know how to make a no-frills basic whiskey sour, we have a tried and true whiskey sour recipe here.l

If you’re a maple syrup fan, I highly recommend you do some research to find a maple syrup that has the perfect consistency for your cocktail. I’m a big fan of this list from Food and Wine.

Maple Whiskey Sour

An easy-to-make whiskey sour variation that adds the depth and character of maple to the tartness of the classic whiskey sour recipe. This is a delicious drink for any occasion.

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword alcoholic drink, cocktail, maple, whiskey cocktail, whiskey sour

Cook Time 5

Total Time 5

Servings 1

Calories 230kcal

Equipment

1 Cocktail Shaker
1 cocktail strainer

Ingredients

2 oz whiskey
1 oz fresh lemon juice
¾ oz maple syrup
1 egg white
ice
orange peel for garnish

Instructions

In a cocktail shaker, combine the whiskey, lemon juice, maple syrup, and egg white.
Shake the mixture vigorously for about 10-15 seconds until the egg white is frothy and the ingredients are well combined.
Add some ice to the shaker and shake again until the mixture is chilled.
Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
Garnish with a twist of orange peel.

Maple Whiskey Sour Variations:

For a smoky twist, add a dash of smoked paprika to the mixture.
For a fruity twist, add a splash of cranberry juice or muddled berries to the mixture.
Want a summer variation? Try our insanely delicious Peach Whiskey Sour.

Tips:

To get the best froth from the egg white, dry shake the ingredients (without ice) first for about 10-15 seconds.
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.

This Maple Whiskey Sour is the perfect cocktail for any occasion. It’s sweet, sour, and easy to make. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your friends with your bartending skills. Try this recipe today and let us know what you think!

Cocktail Recipes

Manhattan Cocktail Variations

April 9, 2023 Andrew Leave a comment

Everyone loves a Manhattan cocktail, and our easy-to-make Manhattan Cocktail Recipe was so popular for our readers, that we decided to go in depth on some fantastic Manhattan cocktail variations! In this blog post, we will share my top 3 favorite Manhattan variations, including the elusive Brooklyn Manhattan, tangy Cherry Manhattan, and hauntingly classy Black Manhattan.

Manhattan Variation: Brooklyn Manhattan

It shouldn’t be shocking at all, but this variation of the Manhattan is actually named after the New York City neighborhood of Brooklyn, and the name is a slight rivalry dig at their neighboring borough. This drink is delicious and you’ll notice that the typical sweet vermouth we use in the classic Manhattan is getting substituted for dry vermouth in this recipe. Never fear, though! The maraschino liqueur saves the day in this recipe, and beautifully balances the bitterness that we typically see in a drink like this. Here’s a great list of Maraschino liqueur. I’m personally a huge fan of the Luxardo brand for this ingredient.

As I note below, if you can’t find Amer Picon, Angostura & Orange bitters are a very solid substitute in this drink.

Brooklyn Manhattan Ingredients:

2 ounces rye whiskey
1 ounce dry vermouth
1/4 ounce maraschino liqueur
1/4 ounce Amer Picon (substitute 2 dashes of Angostura or Orange bitters if you don’t have this)
Instructions:

Instructions

In a shaker filled with ice, combine the rye whiskey, vermouth, maraschino liqeur, and Amer Picon.
Shake well and strain into a chilled coupe glass or rocks glass.
Garnish with a lemon twist and serve immediately.

Manhattan Variation: Cherry Manhattan

Finding the right cherry juice is going to be key to this cocktail. Because the Manhattan is already a somewhat sweet beverage, finding the perfect cherries will determine the exact direction your cocktail will take. There’s an entire school of thought on the best cherries to use in this cocktail (and a fantastic breakdown of the different marachino cherries you can get here), but I am personally a huge fan of the Woodford Reserve Bourbon Barrel Cherries. They’re not overpoweringly sweet, and have the perfect level of tart to take this cocktail to the next level.

Cherry Manhattan Ingredients:

2 ounces rye whiskey
1 ounce sweet vermouth
1 ounce of cherry juice (tart or sour)
2 dashes Angostura bitters
Cherry, for garnish

Instructions:

In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine the rye whiskey, cherry juice, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
Stir well and strain into a chilled coupe glass.
Garnish with a cherry and serve immediately.

Manhattan Variation: Black Manhattan

This variation has a delicious depth to it. By using Amoro instead of vermouth, we get a lovely bitter & chocolaty flavor depth to this drink. For Amoro – many people will go with Averna, but if you love playing around with bitters, here’s a fantastic list of other brands you can play around with.

Black Manhattan Ingredients

2 ounces rye whiskey
1 ounce Amoro
1 dashes Angostura bitters
1 dash orange bitters
Cherry, for garnish

Instructions:

In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine the rye whiskey, Amoro, and bitters.
Stir well and strain into a chilled coupe glass.
Garnish with a cherry & lemon twist and serve immediately.

Cocktail Recipes

Peach Whiskey Sour Recipe

April 9, 2023 Andrew Leave a comment

Happy warm weather season! What better way to celebrate the re-appearance of vitamin D than to make perhaps THE MOST refreshing Peach Whiskey Sour you can find on the internet. This Peach Whiskey Sour recipe is perfect for summer sipping! It’s a sweet and tangy twist on a classic whiskey sour, and it’s so easy to make. We have our own take on the Classic Whiskey Sour here, which is the perfect base for this cocktail.

Peach Whiskey Sour Recipe Alternate Variation (The Peach Pie):

Add 2 dashes of pecan bitters to this recipe if you want this cocktail to taste like a delicious peach pie.

Tips:

If you really want to lean into the Peach Simply Syrup, checkout this great recipe from This Vivacious Life. A pro move would be to make a jar of this for repeat usage (because I know you’ll be making a lot of this cocktail).
To make a large batch of peach simple syrup, increase the amount of sugar and water proportionally to the amount of peaches you’re using.
If you’re concerned about using raw egg whites in your cocktail, you can use pasteurized egg whites instead.
For a non-alcoholic version, you can replace the bourbon whiskey with iced tea or ginger ale.

Enjoy this Peach Whiskey Sour recipe on a hot summer day, or any time you want a sweet and tangy cocktail.

Peach Whiskey Sour Recipe

This five-ingredient peach whiskey sour goes into the books as perhaps the most refreshing cocktail of all time. And it's easy to make!

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword alcoholic drink, bourbon cocktail, summer drink, whiskey sour

Prep Time 2

Cook Time 6

Total Time 8

Servings 1

Calories 230kcal

Equipment

1 Cocktail Shaker
1 saucepan
1 cocktail strainer

Ingredients

2 oz bourbon
1 oz fresh lemon juice
1 oz peach syrup
1 egg white
ice
peach slices for garnish

Instructions

Peach Simple Syrup Recipe

Combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan with sliced peaches.
Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
Remove from heat and let cool.
Strain out the peaches and store syrup in a jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Peach Whiskey Sour Recipe

In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon whiskey, fresh lemon juice, peach simple syrup, and egg white.
Shake vigorously for 30 seconds to emulsify the egg white and create a frothy texture.
Add ice to the shaker and shake again for 10-15 seconds to chill.
Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
Garnish with peach slices and mint sprigs, and serve.

Cocktail Recipes

Sparkling Spring Bourbon Lemonade Recipe

April 7, 2023 Andrew Leave a comment

Spring might be the greatest season of them all. The combination of Easter, Passover, the Masters, and warm weather make it the perfect time to gather with family and friends. This Spring Sparkling Bourbon Lemonade is a crowd favorite and festive drink that will 1000% get you in the spring mood!

This drink is easy to make, and you’ll ultimately need just a few ingredients, including bourbon, lemonade, sparkling water, and fresh fruit for garnish.

We recommend making this drink in a pitcher. What better incentive to drink this with friends, than having an entire pitcher full?

Sparkling Spring Bourbon Lemonade Recipe

The Sparkling Spring Bourbon Lemonade is an easy and quick spring cocktail that will certainly be a hit as the weather gets warmer.

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Keyword alcoholic drink, cocktail, spring drink

Cook Time 8

Total Time 5

Servings 4 people

Calories 120kcal

Equipment

1 Pitcher

Ingredients

1 cup bourbon
1 cup fresh squeezed lemonade
1 liter sparkling water
fresh fruit garnish

Instructions

Combine the bourbon, lemonade, and sparkling water in a pitcher.
Garnish with fresh fruit, if desired.
Serve chilled and enjoy!

Sparkling Bourbon Lemonade Spring Variations:

The Spring Sparkling Bourbon Lemonade is an easy and delicious drink recipe that’s perfect for any Easter gathering. With its refreshing and bubbly texture, it’s sure to be a hit with your guests. So, give this recipe a try and let us know which variation is your favorite!

Lavender Lemonade: Add a splash of lavender syrup to the pitcher for a floral twist on the classic recipe.
Strawberry Rhubarb Lemonade: Combine fresh strawberries and rhubarb in a saucepan with sugar and water. Cook over medium heat until the fruit has broken down and the mixture is syrupy. Add this to the pitcher for a sweet and tangy variation.
Mint Lemonade: Muddle fresh mint leaves in the bottom of the pitcher before adding the other ingredients for a refreshing and herbaceous twist.
Ginger and Honey: Add 1/2 cup of honey and 1/4 cup of fresh ginger juice to the pitcher for a sweet and spicy twist on this classic drink.
Lavender and Thyme: Infuse the lemonade with 2 tablespoons of dried lavender and 2 sprigs of fresh thyme for a floral and herbaceous flavor. Add a splash of lavender syrup to sweeten it up if desired.