Episode 64: The Desert Bloom | Neon Pink Highball!

The garden has finally woken up! 🌸 Today on Your Bourbon Journey, Rebecca kicks off our April “Vibrant Spring” series with a cocktail that looks like a neon dream but hits like a heavyweight. Meet The Desert Bloom.

We’re trading forest floor flavors for high-desert botanicals, using a stunning Prickly Pear Syrup to create a “Neon Heart” in the glass. But don’t let the pink hue fool you—this isn’t a “sugar bomb.” By using Old Grand-Dad 114, we provide a spicy, high-proof anchor that stands up to the citrus and sweetness.

The real magic trick? Celery Bitters. This savory “garden snap” cuts through the candy notes, grounding the drink in a sophisticated, botanical reality. If you’re looking for a refreshing yet bold highball to celebrate the return of spring, this is your new go-to.

In this video, Rebecca breaks down:

• The “Neon Heart”: Working with Prickly Pear Syrup.
• Why OGD 114 is the perfect high-rye foundation for tall drinks.
• The “Secret Weapon”: How celery bitters transform a fruit-forward cocktail.
• The “Mineral Effervescence” of club soda as a flavor conductor.

Recipe: The Desert Bloom

• 2 oz Old Grand-Dad 114 Bourbon
• .75 oz Prickly Pear Syrup
• .50 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
• 1 bar spoon Demerara Syrup
• 2 dashes Fee Brothers Celery Bitters
• 2 oz Club Soda
• Garnish: Fresh Mint Sprig (Don’t forget to slap it!)

🛒 Featured Cocktail Ingredients & Tools

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out the links below!

• BARE BARREL Insulated Cocktail Shaker Set: https://amzn.to/4bTmQn7 
• A Bar Above Premium Bell Jigger: https://amzn.to/40Uy3Pe 
• BARsics PVC Bar Service Mat: https://amzn.to/4bAeeCV 
• Prickly Pear Syrup for Cocktails: https://amzn.to/4vcgLuQ
• Demerara Syrup: https://amzn.to/48dRsxQ 
• Fee Brothers Celery Bitters: https://amzn.to/42fD0lI 

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NOTE: The spirits and items in this review were purchased by us. We were not compensated by the producers for this review. Please drink responsibly.

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