It's probably a tipple you've seen cowboys drinking neat in Western films, but it turns out the all-American spirit bourbon is on a comeback. Recently it's been cropping up on the menus of all the hottest cocktail spots, but the amber-coloured rye spirit wasn't always so trendy.
Distiller Denny Potter told Real Simple he believes that the prevalence of cocktail culture is one of the reasons why bourbon is on the rise. No longer, he says, are cocktails made only with white spirits like vodka and gin with tons of sugary mix-ins.
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"Mixologists wanted the flavour to come from alcohol. Bourbon could provide that," Potter says.
"So back came classic whisky cocktails like the Old Fashioned and Manhattan, but also great imagination by mixologists to create drinks that showcase bourbon without it overpowering."
So you can pour and sip with the best of them, the team at Legent Bourbon have put together a few cocktail recipes you can add to your repertoire. Go forth and impress your friends at your next summer get-together!
Rising Sun
A rounded and smoothed-out play on a whiskey sour. Easy to make and enjoy.
- 1 ½ parts Bourbon
- ½ part Apricot Liqueur
- ½ part lemon juice
- ¼ part simple syrup
Shake all ingredients. Strain into a rocks glass with fresh ice.
Old Pal
A unique twist on the classic.
- 1 ½ parts Bourbon
- ½ part Campari Liqueur
- ½ part Dry Vermouth
- ¼ part honey syrup
Stir all ingredients with ice and strain over a large ice cube. Garnish with grapefruit peel.
The Legent Manhattan
Classic and reserved, the distinct flavour of the bourbon comes shining through and pairs perfectly with a unique set of ingredients.
- 1 ½ parts Bourbon
- ½ part Averna Amaro
- ½ part Cherry Liqueur (not maraschino liqueur)
Stir all ingredients with ice. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a cherry.
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