15 Best Kentucky Bourbon Cocktails in 2023
If you're in search of the perfect libation that embodies the spirit of the American South, look no further. Kentucky bourbon cocktails have long been celebrated for their rich flavours, history, and artistry.
In 2023, the world of bourbon mixology has reached new heights, offering a delightful range of cocktails that cater to both traditionalists and adventurous spirits.
Get ready to embark on a journey through the Bluegrass State as we unveil the 15 Best Kentucky Bourbon Cocktails of the year.
These expertly crafted drinks are sure to elevate your spirits and leave you craving for more.
History of Kentucky Bourbon
Before we dive into the tantalizing world of bourbon cocktails, let's take a moment to appreciate the heritage of Kentucky bourbon itself.
Born in the rolling hills of Kentucky, bourbon has a history that's as rich and layered as the drink itself. It's a true American treasure, known for its meticulous craftsmanship and unique flavour profile.
From the bourbon pioneers of the 18th century to the modern-day distilleries, Kentucky's contribution to the world of spirits is undeniable.
The 15 Best Kentucky Bourbon Cocktails in 2023
Mint Julep
Ingredients:
- 2.5 oz Kentucky bourbon
- 6-8 fresh mint leaves
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- Crushed ice
Directions:
- Muddle mint leaves and simple syrup in a glass.
- Fill with crushed ice, add bourbon, and stir.
- Garnish with a mint sprig.
Old Fashioned
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Kentucky bourbon
- 1 sugar cube
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange twist
Directions:
- Muddle sugar and bitters in a glass.
- Add bourbon and ice, stir.
- Garnish with an orange twist.
Boulevardier
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz Kentucky bourbon
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
Directions:
- Stir all ingredients with ice and strain into a glass.
- Garnish with an orange twist.
Kentucky Mule
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Kentucky bourbon
- 4 oz ginger beer
- 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
Directions:
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Add bourbon and lime juice.
- Top with ginger beer and stir.
Bourbon Smash
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Kentucky bourbon
- 4-6 fresh mint leaves
- 0.75 oz simple syrup
- Half a lemon
Directions:
- Muddle mint, lemon, and simple syrup in a glass.
- Add bourbon and ice, stir.
- Garnish with mint sprig and a lemon wheel.
Whiskey Sour
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Kentucky bourbon
- 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
Directions:
- Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a glass.
- Garnish with a cherry and a lemon slice.
Bourbon Bramble
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Kentucky bourbon
- 0.5 oz blackberry liqueur
- 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
Directions:
- Shake bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice.
- Strain into a glass with crushed ice.
- Drizzle blackberry liqueur over the top.
Kentucky Coffee
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Kentucky bourbon
- 4 oz hot coffee
- 1 oz brown sugar syrup
- Whipped cream
Directions:
- Combine bourbon, coffee, and syrup in a glass.
- Top with whipped cream.
Maple Bourbon Smash
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Kentucky bourbon
- 0.5 oz pure maple syrup
- 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
- 2-3 fresh sage leaves
Directions:
- Muddle sage, lemon juice, and maple syrup in a glass.
- Add bourbon and ice, stir.
- Garnish with a sage leaf.
Bourbon and Honey
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Kentucky bourbon
- 1 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and hot water)
- 2 dashes orange bitters
Directions:
- Stir bourbon, honey syrup, and bitters with ice.
- Strain into a glass with a large ice cube.
- Express an orange twist over the drink and garnish.
Black Walnut Old Fashioned
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Kentucky bourbon
- 0.5 oz black walnut liqueur
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
Directions:
- Stir all ingredients with ice and strain into a glass with an ice cube.
- Garnish with an orange twist.
Spiced Pear Bourbon Punch
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Kentucky bourbon
- 1 oz spiced pear liqueur
- 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice
- 2 oz sparkling water
Directions:
- Shake bourbon, pear liqueur, and lemon juice with ice.
- Strain into a glass with ice.
- Top with sparkling water.
Cherry Smash
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Kentucky bourbon
- 0.75 oz fresh lime juice
- 0.5 oz maraschino liqueur
- 3-4 fresh cherries
Directions:
- Muddle cherries, lime juice, and maraschino liqueur in a glass.
- Add bourbon and ice, stir.
- Garnish with a cherry and a lime wheel.
Bourbon Ginger Smash
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Kentucky bourbon
- 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz ginger liqueur
- 3-4 slices of fresh ginger
Directions:
- Muddle ginger, lemon juice, and ginger liqueur in a glass.
- Add bourbon and ice, stir.
- Garnish with a candied ginger slice.
Southern Peach Sour
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Kentucky bourbon
- 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
- 0.5 oz peach schnapps
- 1/4 oz simple syrup
- 2-3 slices of fresh peach
Directions:
- Muddle fresh peach slices and simple syrup in a glass.
- Add bourbon, lemon juice, and peach schnapps.
- Shake with ice and strain into a glass with ice.
- Garnish with a peach slice.
Conclusion
In the world of spirits, few things can compare to the smooth, warming embrace of a well-crafted Kentucky bourbon cocktail. As 2023 unfolds, the art of mixing bourbon has never been more exciting.
Whether you're a fan of the timeless classics or eager to explore innovative twists on the traditional, there's a Kentucky bourbon cocktail waiting to entice your taste buds.
So, grab your favourite bottle of Kentucky bourbon, gather the necessary ingredients, and embark on a journey of mixology.
These 15 Best Kentucky Bourbon Cocktails in 2023 are not just beverages; they're a testament to the craftsmanship, history, and creativity that make bourbon cocktails an enduring American tradition.
Now, it's your turn to raise a glass, savour the moment, and enjoy the captivating world of Kentucky bourbon. Cheers to a year filled with unforgettable bourbon experiences!
