Cocktail Recipes

Kentucky Tobacco Sour: A Unique Spin on the Classic Whiskey Sour

/ bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

In episode 8 of Thirsty Thursday Bourbon Cocktails, we’re crafting the ultimate bourbon cocktail set to become your new favorite: the Kentucky Tobacco Sour! My inspiration struck at a bourbon pairing dinner where a chef used Turkish Tobacco Bitters in the appetizer, leaving me completely captivated by the rich aromas and earthy flavors.

The very next day, I seized a bottle of Fee Brothers Turkish Tobacco Bitters, eager to explore its potential. However, I couldn’t find a bourbon-based cocktail that matched my flavor aspirations. So, I put my spin on the classic Whiskey Sour—using Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey and a splash of Fee Brothers Turkish Tobacco Bitters.

The result is a delightful fragrance that evokes tobacco leaves—warm, complex, earthy, subtly sweet, and intriguingly floral. The bitters’ notes of nutmeg and clove create a robust cocktail experience. After testing several versions, Wayne and I are confident you’ll love this Kentucky Tobacco Sour as much as we do!

In this video, we will guide you through the cocktail-making process with clear, step-by-step instructions so you can confidently create this exquisite drink—perfect for sharing with friends or savoring solo.

RECIPE: 

  • 2 oz. of bourbon
  • 1 oz. of Sweet & Sour Mix (or equal parts lemon juice & simple syrup)
  • 3 Dashes of Turkish Tobacco Bitters
  • 6 Dashes of Fee Brothers Fee Foam (or one egg white)
  • Garnish with 3 Dashes of Turkish Tobacco Bitters

DIRECTIONS:

  • Add 2 oz. bourbon
  • Add 1 oz. of Sweet & Sour Mix
  • Add 3 Dashes of Turkish Tobacco Bitters
  • Stir in mixing glass until chilled
  • Pour into shaker dry (with no ice)
  • Add 6 Dashes of Fee Brothers Fee Foam
  • Shake for up to 1 minute
  • Pour into Coupe Glass
  • Garnish with 3 Dashes of Turkish Tobacco Bitters

AMAZON AFFILIATE LINKS (commissions earned):

Thank you – Please Drink Responsibly

Bourbon Hot Toddy: The Cozy Cocktail You Need This Winter

/ bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

In episode 7 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, we are crafting a drink that will wrap you in cozy warmth on a chilly evening – the Bourbon Hot Toddy! This timeless classic not only brings comfort but also delights the senses, making it a perfect companion for curling up by the fireplace or enjoying a quiet night in. With its straightforward ingredients, including the rich and smooth bourbon, fragrant honey, zesty lemon, and hot water, it strikes the ideal balance of sweetness and tartness, ensuring a satisfying sip every time. This terrific cocktail is sure to be your go-to evening sipper, providing both refreshment and relief from the cold. Tonight, we will master the Bourbon Hot Toddy cocktail with clear, step-by-step instructions, empowering you to create this delightful drink with confidence and style, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring on your own.

RECIPE: 

  • 2 oz. bourbon
  • 1 bar spoon of lemon juice
  • Dash of Angostura Aromatic Bitters 
  • Dash of cinnamon
  • Dash of nutmeg
  • 4 oz hot water
  • 2 full bar spoons of honey
  • Lemon slices and cinnamon sticks, for serving

AMAZON AFFILIATE LINKS (commissions earned):

BAR ITEMS

True Bar Mat: https://amzn.to/4hi23ua 

Briout Jigger for Bartending: https://amzn.to/3DUjva3 

Briout Bar Spoon: https://amzn.to/3PJMwaN 

FOOD OR GARNISHES

Spicy World Cinnamon Sticks 7 Ounce Bag: https://amzn.to/3WuNhIQ 

iSpice Premium nutmeg: https://amzn.to/40pzMv7 

Angostura Bitters Original and Orange Bitters (Combo- Pack) – 4oz Bottles, Aromatic and Citrus Infused: https://amzn.to/4bkQhO7 

GLASSWARE

Godinger Coffee Mugs, Glass Irish Coffee Mug Set: https://amzn.to/3PR51dq 

Unlock the Secrets of Bold Bourbon Bloody Marys!

/ bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

In episode 6 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, we’re crafting a bold and rich interpretation of the classic Bloody Mary. This time, we’re elevating it with BOURBON! Often referred to as a Bourbon Bloody Mary, a Bloody Marianne, or a Bloody Derby, this cocktail is a game changer. The beauty of the Bourbon Bloody Mary lies in its versatility; you can start with a prepared Bloody Mary mix and effortlessly enhance it with a few careful ingredients to match your taste. Perfect for bourbon enthusiasts, this cocktail transforms the traditional Bloody Mary, as the bourbon introduces a remarkable depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.

RECIPE & DIRECTIONS: 
Optional: Rim Glass with Bacon Salt & Tajín® Clásico Seasoning
In a mixing glass, add:
…6 ounces Bloody Mary mix
…2 ounces bourbon
…3 dashes of Worcestershire sauce
…2-3 dashes of Tajín® Clásico Seasoning
…2-3 dashes of Maple Bacon Salt
…2-3 dashes of celery salt
…2-3 dashes of black pepper
…1/2 teaspoon (or bar spoon) of Prepared Horseradish
…2-3 drops Gravy Master
…2-4 drops of Hot Sauce (to your spice level)
…Squeeze of Fresh Lime
Pour into a prepared highball glass filled with ice and pre-rimmed
Garnish as desired. This can be simple to elaborate!
…Mini Dill Pickle, Stuffed Olives, Cherry Tomato
Enjoy!

AMAZON AFFILIATE LINKS (commissions earned):

18″x12″ PVC Bar Service Mat for Cocktail Bartender: https://amzn.to/42GjdxR 

Briout Jigger for Bartending: https://amzn.to/3DUjva3 

Mindspace Utensil Holder, Kitchen Condiment Organizer and Flatware Utensil Caddy: https://amzn.to/3ELKvIW 

MOFADO. Crystal Cocktail Mixing Glass: https://amzn.to/4jiZ0nl 

Highball Drinking Glasses Set of 4: https://amzn.to/41wHOUV

Zing Zang Bloody Mary Mix: https://amzn.to/41oc1Fz

Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce: https://amzn.to/4hK056y

Tajín Clásico Chile Lime Seasoning: https://amzn.to/4k135gp

Smoked Bacon Sea Salt: https://amzn.to/4bayR6S

Cuisinart Maple Bacon Seasoning: https://amzn.to/4k7p2dG

McCormick Celery Salt: https://amzn.to/4i1HeUm

Bookbinder’s Horseradish: https://amzn.to/4k9dGGn 

Gravy Master: https://amzn.to/41kbmot

Filthy Cocktail Garnish, Blue Cheese Stuffed Olives: https://amzn.to/4k13CyV

Mezzetta Stuffed Olives, Jalapeno: https://amzn.to/42Z5Ybt 

Bourbon Hot Chocolate: The Cozy Cocktail You Didn’t Know You Needed

/ bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

In episode 5 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, we’re crafting an alluring Hot Chocolate Bourbon Kiss Cocktail! While the rich, bold bourbon takes center stage, every sip is infused with a symphony of flavors that will awaken your senses and delight your palate. Decadent white chocolate liqueur, exquisitely barrel-aged maple syrup, and enchanting chocolate bitters create a captivating mélange that ignites your senses. Elevate your experience with optional garnishes like luscious Ghirardelli Caramel and Chocolate Sauces, fluffy Whipped Cream, aromatic Cinnamon, and a vibrant Maraschino Cherry! This recipe celebrates the artistry of creating a truly special bourbon cocktail. In this episode, this seductive drink is elegantly served in a stunning cut glass Irish Coffee Mug, adding a touch of sophistication to any celebration.

RECIPE: 
1.5 Ounces of Bourbon
.5 Ounce of White Chocolate Liqueur 
<.5 Ounce of Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup
4 Dashes of Aztec Chocolate Bitters
Hot Chocolate to Fill
Garnish with Whipped Cream, A Dash of Cinnamon, and a Maraschino Cherry 

AMAZON AFFILIATE LINKS (commissions earned):

18″x12″ PVC Bar Service Mat for Cocktail Bartender: https://amzn.to/42GjdxR 

Briout Jigger for Bartending: https://amzn.to/3DUjva3 

Mindspace Utensil Holder, Kitchen Condiment Organizer and Flatware Utensil Caddy: https://amzn.to/3ELKvIW 

Bourbon Barrel Maple Syrup: https://amzn.to/40Cb2AU 

Fee Brothers Aztec Chocolate Cocktail Bitters: https://amzn.to/3ClJ43e 

Godinger Coffee Mugs, Glass Irish Coffee Mug Set: https://amzn.to/3PR51dq 

Ghirardelli Squeeze Bottles – Caramel, Chocolate & White Chocolate – Set of 3: https://amzn.to/4aYwFiu 

Milk Frothing Pitcher Stainless Steel: https://amzn.to/3Qj3IEy 

Coffee Mug Warmer: https://amzn.to/4jVK7rC 

Roland Premium Maraschino Cherries With Stems: https://amzn.to/4gJ221M 

5 Minutes to Make an AMAZING Chocolate Covered Cherry Cocktail 

/ bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

In episode 4 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, we’re creating a cocktail that sets the perfect mood for Valentine’s Day – a Chocolate Covered Cherry Bourbon Cocktail! Inspired by the exquisite cherry cordial candies, this recipe guarantees an intoxicating aroma, rich flavor, and luxurious mouthfeel that mirrors the delights of the candies. Whether you choose to serve it neat in a coupe glass or over an ice ball in a rocks glass, this drink radiates sophistication. In this episode, we’re opting for a coupe glass to showcase the stunning dark red color and elegance of the cocktail.

RECIPE: 
1.5 Ounces of Bourbon
.75 Ounce of Creme de Cacao
4 Dashes of Aztec Chocolate Bitters
4 Dashes of Cherry Bitters
2 Bar Spoons of Luxardo Cherry Syrup
1 Luxardo Cherry for Garnish

AMAZON AFFILIATE LINKS (commissions earned):

18″x12″ PVC Bar Service Mat for Cocktail Bartender: https://amzn.to/42GjdxR 

MOFADO. Crystal Cocktail Mixing Glass: https://amzn.to/4jiZ0nl 

Briout Bar Spoon: https://amzn.to/3PJMwaN 

Briout Jigger for Bartending: https://amzn.to/3DUjva3 

Julep Strainer: https://amzn.to/3EgYxSJ 

Libbey Signature Kentfield Coupe Cocktail Glasses Set of 4: https://amzn.to/4gkKKI0 

Fee Brothers Aztec Chocolate Cocktail Bitters: https://amzn.to/3ClJ43e 

Fee Brothers Cherry Cocktail Bitters: https://amzn.to/42otmPk 

Luxardo Gourmet Cocktail Maraschino Cherries: https://amzn.to/3Wl8C7A 

Bourbon Lovers Rejoice! The Boulevardier Recipe You Need 

/ bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

In episode 3 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, we’re crafting the ultimate Bourbon Based Boulevardier, pronounced: BOOL-LUH-VARRR DEE-AY. This bourbon-based Boulevardier is bold and warming—a drink you’ll eagerly reach for on a crisp fall or winter evening. Originating from 1927, this classic cocktail combines bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari to perfection. Whether served neat in a coupe glass or over an ice ball in a rocks glass, this drink exudes sophistication. In this episode, we’re opting for a coupe glass to enhance the warmth and elegance of the cocktail.

RECIPE: 
1.5 Ounces of Bourbon
1 Ounce of Sweet Vermouth
1 Ounce of Campari
Fresh Orange Peel for Garnish

AMAZON AFFILIATE LINKS (commissions earned):

True Bar Mat: https://amzn.to/4hi23ua 

MOFADO. Crystal Cocktail Mixing Glass: https://amzn.to/4jiZ0nl 

Briout Bar Spoon: https://amzn.to/3PJMwaN 

Briout Jigger for Bartending: https://amzn.to/3DUjva3 

Julep Strainer: https://amzn.to/3EgYxSJ 

A Bar Above Professional Quality Citrus Peeler: https://amzn.to/40RBwi9 

Libbey Signature Kentfield Coupe Cocktail Glasses Set of 4: https://amzn.to/4gkKKI0 

5 Minute Hot Buttered Bourbon Recipe That Will BLOW Your Mind!

/ bourbonjourney / Leave a comment

In episode 2 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails, we’re crafting a drink that will envelop you in warmth during these chilly winter evenings – the Hot Buttered Bourbon! This delightful variation on the classic Hot Buttered Rum, which has its origins in colonial America, is sure to impress. With its straightforward ingredients and irresistibly smooth, sweet flavor, it has rightfully earned its place in the hearts of many. Tonight, we’ll explore the art of making the Spiced Butter Batter and then guide you through the creation of the Hot Buttered Bourbon cocktail with precise, step-by-step instructions.

If you share my enthusiasm, you will absolutely adore a Hot Buttered Bourbon; it’s an indulgent, rich, and satisfying drink that boasts a smooth, creamy texture from melted butter, perfectly complemented by the sweetness and spice of added sugars and spices, making it especially delightful on frosty winter nights. It’s truly a cozy, decadent cocktail that feels nothing short of luxurious to savor.

RECIPE: HOT BUTTERED BOURBON

SPICED BUTTER BATTER INGREDIENTS

  • 1 stick (4 ounces) unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt (OMIT if using salted butter)

Note: All of these warming spices are not required, use what you have and love

  • 1/4 to 1 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 to 1 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 to 1 teaspoon ground allspice

DIRECTIONS

In mixing bowl, combine butter, vanilla extract, brown sugar, spices and salt. Beat until well combined. Remaining batter can be stored in airtight container in refrigerator for future use.

In heat-proof glass or mug, add 1-2 tablespoons spiced butter batter,  1.5 to 2 oz of bourbon,  top with hot water and stir until ingredients are well incorporated. Garnish with cinnamon stick, if desired, and enjoy!

Amazon Affiliate Links (commissions earned):

BAR ITEMS

True Bar Mat: https://amzn.to/4hi23ua 

Briout Jigger for Bartending: https://amzn.to/3DUjva3 

FOOD OR GARNISHES

Spicy World Cinnamon Sticks 7 Ounce Bag: https://amzn.to/3WuNhIQ 

iSpice Premium nutmeg: https://amzn.to/40pzMv7 

GLASSWARE

Godinger Coffee Mugs, Glass Irish Coffee Mug Set: https://amzn.to/3PR51dq