Whiskey Basics Vol. 10: The Best Bourbon Cocktails

Welcome to the world of bourbon cocktails, where classics never go out of style! Bourbon, made primarily from corn, is a rich, complex, and versatile spirit that can be enjoyed neat or mixed into cocktails. In this article, we'll show you how to make three classic bourbon cocktails, along with a brief history and tasting notes.

1. Old Fashioned - The Old Fashioned is a classic bourbon cocktail that dates back to the 1800s. It's a simple cocktail that consists of bourbon, sugar, bitters, and a citrus peel. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 dashes of bitters
• Orange peel
• Ice

Instructions:

1. Add the sugar, bitters, and a splash of water to an old fashioned glass.
2. Muddle until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add ice and pour in the bourbon.
4. Garnish with a twist of orange peel.

Tasting notes: The Old Fashioned is a strong, yet well-balanced cocktail that's perfect for sipping. The sugar and bitters give it a subtle sweetness, while the citrus peel adds a refreshing aroma.

1. Manhattan - The Manhattan is a classic cocktail that's made with either bourbon or rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. It's a sophisticated cocktail that's perfect for sipping after a long day. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
• 1 oz sweet vermouth
• 2 dashes of bitters
• Luxardo or other high-end Maraschino cherry
• Ice

Instructions:

1. Add the bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters to a mixing glass.
2. Add ice and stir until well-chilled.
3. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
4. Garnish with a maraschino cherry.

Tasting notes: The Manhattan is a smooth and elegant cocktail that's perfect for sipping. The sweet vermouth adds a subtle sweetness, while the bitters give it a nice balance.

1. Mint Julep - The Mint Julep is a classic southern cocktail that's made with bourbon, sugar, mint, and crushed ice. It's a refreshing cocktail that's perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. Here's how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 tsp sugar
• 8-10 mint leaves
• Crushed ice

Instructions:

1. Add the mint leaves and sugar to a julep cup.
2. Muddle until the sugar dissolves and the mint is fragrant.
3. Add crushed ice and pour in the bourbon.
4. Garnish with a sprig of mint.

Tasting notes: The Mint Julep is a refreshing and minty cocktail that's perfect for sipping on a hot day. The sugar and mint balance the strong bourbon, making it a well-rounded cocktail.