Thirsty Thursday

The Midnight Fog: Dark, Smoky, & Silky Bourbon Sour

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🌑 The Midnight Fog: JET-BLACK Smoked Bourbon Sour (Halloween Cocktail)

Welcome to Episode 42 of Thirsty Thursday Cocktails! I’m Rebecca, and tonight we conclude our three-part Halloween special with the most dramatic drink of the series: The Midnight Fog.

This isn’t your average bright whiskey sour—it’s a dark, velvety, and complex riff inspired by a stormy midnight scene. We’re using Activated Charcoal for its striking jet-black color and a cocktail smoker for an epic “fog” presentation!

If you love sophisticated, spirit-forward drinks with notes of caramel, dark spice, and savory leather, this is the bourbon cocktail for you!

🥃 Flavor Profile

  • Spirit: Bulleit High-Rye Bourbon
  • Color: Jet-Black (from Activated Charcoal)
  • Texture: Velvety & Silky (from Fee Foam)
  • Key Notes: Caramel, Molasses, Leather/Tobacco, Charred Oak, Bright Lemon Zest.

🛒 Ingredients & Bar Tools (Amazon)

We used some specific, unique ingredients for the dark color and complex flavor. Check out the links below!

(Note: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

“Please note: Activated charcoal is used purely for color and may interfere with certain medications. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns!”

📝 The Midnight Fog Recipe

  • 2 oz Bulleit Bourbon (High-Rye)
  • 1 oz Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup
  • 0.75 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 3 Dashes Molasses Bitters
  • 2 Dashes Turkish Tobacco Bitters
  • 5 Dashes Fee Foam (or Egg White)
  • 1/8 tsp Activated Charcoal (for color)
  • Optional: Black and White Edible Glitter

Technique: Smoke your chilled coupe glass with Hickory chips. Dry shake ingredients vigorously for 15 seconds. Add ice and wet shake for 15-20 seconds.Strain into smoked glass. 

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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.

#bourbonsour

#blackcocktail

#smokedcocktail

#cocktailrecipe

#halloweencocktails

#whiskeysour

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Witching Hour Sour: The Perfect Halloween Bourbon Drink

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🧙‍♀️ The “Witching Hour Sour!” A Dark & Delicious Halloween Cocktail! 🥃

Welcome to Thursday Thirsty Cocktails, Episode 41! Tonight, for Halloween Part 2 of 3, we’re stirring up a truly enchanting drink: The Witching Hour Sour!

This isn’t your average cocktail. We’ve taken a classic sour and given it a complex, spirit-forward twist perfect for your spooky celebrations. With a beautiful deep purple hue thanks to the Crème de Cassis, this drink is as mesmerizing to look at as it is delicious to sip.

🌟 Featured Ingredients & Flavor Profile

We’re starting with Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon—chosen for its big notes of brown sugar and cinnamon, making it a fantastic and affordable base spirit.

  • The Color & Tartness: Black Currant Liqueur (Crème de Cassis) delivers a vibrant purple and a delicious sweet-yet-tart flavor.
  • The Spice & Smoke: We’re adding a hint of warming Demerara Syrup and 4 dashes of Bonfire Bitters (they’re more smoky than spicy!) to make you feel like you’re standing over a witch’s cauldron!
  • The Silky Finish: Fee Foam gives this Bourbon Sour its signature silky texture and beautiful white foam top.

🎬 Make the Witching Hour Sour Step-by-Step

Follow along as Rebecca guides you through every step, from the dry shake to the final double strain for that extra-silky mouthfeel. Don’t forget the optional Halloween fun: purple glitter, white glitter on the foam, and a mini witch’s hat garnish! This is the ultimate fall cocktail for fans of bourbon cocktails and anyone looking for a craft cocktail that screams spooky season!

🎬 Don’t Miss Out! Click to watch and learn how to make this show-stopping, easy-to-make cocktail! ➡️ 

🎉 Join the Bourbon Journey Community!

What are you mixing up for Halloween? Let us know in the comments below! Will you give this Witching Hour Sour a try?

We just celebrated our one-year anniversary! If you’re interested in joining our community, suggesting cocktails, and getting involved, check out our new Patreon account!

If you love cocktail recipes and are excited for the rest of our Halloween series, be sure to SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss Part 3! Hit the bell for notifications! 👇

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💬 Share your thoughts and favorite cocktail twists in the comments! 

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Cheers to better drinks! 🥂

📋 The Full Recipe: “The Witching Hour Sour”

  • 2 oz of Bourbon 
  • .50 oz of Crème de Cassis
  • .25 oz of Demerara Syrup 
  • .75 oz of Fresh Lemon Juice 
  • 4 dashes of Bonfire Bitters Bitters 
  • 5 dashes of Fee Foam

Instructions:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a shaker.
  2. Dry Shake for 15-20 seconds to emulsify the Fee Foam.
  3. Add ice and Wet Shake for another 15-20 seconds to chill.
  4. Double Strain into a coupe glass.
  5. Optional: Sprinkle white glitter on the foam and garnish with a witch’s hat pic!

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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.

#WitchingHourSour #HalloweenCocktail #BourbonCocktails #WhiskeySour #CrèmeDeCassis #WildTurkey101 #SmokyCocktail #SpookyDrinks #CocktailRecipe #ThirstyThursday #FeeFoam #CraftCocktails #BlackCurrant

Kiss of the Vampire 🧛‍♀️ Our Best Halloween Cocktail

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🧛‍♀️ The “Kiss of the Vampire” Cocktail: Thirsty Thursday (Halloween Part 1)

Get ready for the start of our Halloween cocktail trilogy with the “Kiss of the Vampire,” an exciting, spooky Whiskey Sour riff that’s perfect for your next Halloween party!  We’re kicking off Thirsty Thursday Episode 40 by putting a terrifyingly delicious spin on a classic.

🩸 The Recipe: A Bite of Flavor

This isn’t your grandma’s sour! We’ve crafted a cocktail with a deep, bloody color and an electrifying flavor profile:

  • 2 oz Four Roses Single Barrel (OESO): The bourbon‘s rich, dark red fruit notes are the perfect foundation for balance.
  • 1 oz Pomegranate Juice: For that essential tartness and vampire-approved crimson hue!
  • 0.75 oz Fresh Lemon Juice: To perfectly balance the pomegranate and syrup.
  • 0.75 oz Demerara Syrup: Adding a rich, sweet backbone.
  • 3 Dashes Habanero Bitters: The spicy 🌶️ secret ingredient that delivers the “bite” from the vampire!

✨ The Thrilling Presentation

Watch as we make this Halloween cocktail truly spectacular:

  • We add black and red edible glitter and food coloring for a mesmerizing, creepy look.
  • The fee foam creates a beautiful head.
  • It’s served up in a coupe glass and finished with a dramatic bat pick and a sprinkle of extra glitter.

This is the ultimate fall cocktail for fans of bourbon cocktails and anyone looking for a craft cocktail that screams spooky season!

🎬 Don’t Miss Out!

Click to watch and learn how to make this show-stopping, easy-to-make cocktail! ➡️ 

If you love cocktail recipes and are excited for the rest of our Halloween series, be sure to SUBSCRIBE so you don’t miss Parts 2 and 3! Hit the bell for notifications! 👇

👍 If you loved this recipe, give us a thumbs up! 

💬 Share your thoughts and favorite cocktail twists in the comments! 

➡️ Hit that SHARE button and spread the whiskey love! 

Cheers to better drinks! 🥂

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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.

#KissOfTheVampire #HalloweenCocktails #WhiskeySour #BourbonCocktails #FourRoses #CraftCocktails #ThirstyThursday #SpookySeason #PomegranateCocktail #HabaneroBitters #CocktailRecipe #HomeBartender #HalloweenPartyDrinks #GlitterCocktail

This Black Walnut Manhattan Is The Ultimate Upgrade

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🥃 Black Walnut Roost: The Ultimate Chicken Cock Bourbon Manhattan

In Thirsty Thursday Cocktails – Episode 39: The Black Walnut Roost Cocktail, you will learn to elevate your cocktail game with The Black Walnut Roost, a sophisticated and robust Manhattan specifically crafted to showcase the exceptional character of Chicken Cock Private Cask Single Barrel #10. 

This isn’t your average cocktail—it’s a celebration of bold proof, rich cherry, warm vanilla, and that signature unique nuttiness found in this outstanding bourbon.

If you love classic cocktails and are looking for a new twist, this recipe is a must-try. The addition of Black Walnut Bitters perfectly complements the whiskey’s profile, adding layers of complexity that make this drink truly special. It’s the perfect bourbon cocktail for sipping slowly.

📝 Recipe: Black Walnut Roost

  • 2 oz Chicken Cock Private Cask Single Barrel Bourbon
  • 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
  • 3 dashes Black Walnut Bitters
  • Garnish: Luxardo Cherry

Ready to mix up this cocktail masterpiece? ➡️ Watch now to see exactly how to make the Black Walnut Roost and impress your friends with your home bartending skills!

🔔 If you enjoyed this Manhattan recipe and want more whiskey cocktails, hit that Subscribe button and ring the notification bell so you don’t miss our next video!

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💬 Share your thoughts and favorite cocktail twists in the comments! 

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Cheers to better drinks! 🥂

#BlackWalnutRoost #ChickenCockBourbon #ManhattanCocktail #BourbonCocktails #SingleBarrelWhiskey #CocktailRecipe #BlackWalnutBitters #ClassicCocktails #HomeBartender #WhiskeyLover

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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.

Rethink Rye: The Smoked “Cherry Hearth” Cocktail

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Thirsty Thursday Cocktails – Episode 38: The “Cherry Hearth” Cocktail

Unleash a new level of whiskey enjoyment with The “Cherry Hearth” Cocktail! 🥃✨

In this exclusive video, we craft a truly unforgettable drink featuring the highly sought-after Castle & Key Restoration Rye 2022 Single Barrel. Known for its nuanced character, this Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey is the perfect foundation for our innovative cherry wood smoked cocktail.

The “Cherry Hearth” marries the robust spirit of the rye with the sweet, deep notes of premium cherry liqueur, a touch of honey for balance, and lovely Cherry bitters. But the real magic happens with a kiss of cherry wood smoke, infusing every sip with an alluring, earthy sweetness that perfectly complements the whiskey’s profile.

Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey enthusiast or looking to elevate your home bar game, this smoked cocktail recipe is a must-try. We’ll guide you through each step, from stirring the perfect blend to achieving that captivating cherry smoke infusion with your cocktail smoker.

The “Cherry Hearth” Cocktail Ingredients:

  • Castle & Key Restoration Rye 2022 Single Barrel
  • High-Quality Cherry Liqueur (Luxardo Maraschino)
  • Honey Simple Syrup
  • Cherry Bitters
  • Cherry Wood Chips for your smoker

Why you’ll love it:

  • Showcases the incredible Castle & Key Restoration Rye
  • Unique and sophisticated smoked whiskey cocktail
  • Perfect balance of rye, sweet cherry, and aromatic smoke
  • An impressive drink for any occasion or a relaxing evening

Don’t miss out on this incredible recipe! Click Play Now ➡️

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Cheers to better drinks! 🥂

#SmokedCocktail #CastleAndKey #RestorationRye #WhiskeyCocktail #CraftCocktails #HomeBar #Mixology #CocktailRecipe #CherrySmoke #WhiskeyLover #Drinkstagram #CocktailSmoker #BourbonAlternative #KentuckyRye #SingleBarrel #Luxardo #HoneyCocktail #RyeWhiskey #CherryBitters 

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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.

The Barrel & Bonfire: A Unique ECBP Cocktail

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Thirsty Thursday Cocktails – Episode 37: The “Barrel & Bonfire”

Ready to experience your rare Elijah Craig Barrel Proof B525 in a whole new dimension? We’ve crafted the “Barrel & Bonfire” cocktail, a unique and robust drink designed to complement the deep, complex notes of this exceptional 11-year, 6-month aged Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey!

This isn’t just any bourbon cocktail. We’re leaning into the rich barrel influence and the B525’s subtle cherry notes with:

  • Elijah Craig Barrel Proof B525: The powerful, oak-driven backbone of this luxurious libation.
  • Bourbon Barrel-Aged Maple Syrup: Doubling down on those rich, sweet, and woody barrel notes for an unparalleled depth of flavor.
  • Cinzano Sweet Vermouth: Adding a smooth, sweet complexity that harmonizes with the high-proof bourbon.
  • Bonfire Bitters: Introducing a bold, smoky, and aromatic layer that perfectly contrasts and elevates the bourbon’s character.
  • Brandied Cherry & Fresh Lemon Twist: A touch of fruit and bright citrus aroma to round out this sophisticated sipper.

Watch as we mix up this incredible creation, detailing each step to help you craft your own “Barrel & Bonfire” at home. If you love barrel proof bourbon, smoky flavors, and unique cocktail experiences, this is a must-try!

Don’t miss out on this incredible recipe! Click Play Now ➡️

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Cheers to better drinks! 🥂

#BourbonCocktail #ElijahCraigB525 #BarrelAndBonfire

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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.

Bourbon & Cardamom: The Golden Compass Recipe 

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Thirsty Thursday Cocktails – Episode 36: The “Golden Compass”

Get ready to discover your new favorite cocktail: The Golden Compass! 🥃✨

In this video, we’re mixing up a sophisticated and stunning bourbon cocktail that’s perfect for any occasion. This is more than just a drink; it’s an adventure in a glass, combining the smooth, rich notes of Maker’s Mark with the bright, citrusy pop of Cointreau and the complex, warm spice of cardamom bitters.

The subtle herbal notes of Cinzano sweet vermouth and a luxurious brandied cherry garnish elevate this cocktail to a whole new level. It’s a modern classic that’s easy to make but tastes like it came from a world-class bar.

Whether you’re a bourbon aficionado or a home bartender looking to impress, the Golden Compass is a must-try.

Don’t miss out on this incredible recipe! Click Play Now ➡️

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Cheers to better drinks! 🥂

Recipe

  • 2 oz Bourbon (Maker’s Mark)
  • 3/4 oz Sweet Vermouth (CinZano)
  • 1/4 oz Orange Liqueur (Cointreau)
  • 2 dashes Cardamom Bitters
  • A brandied cherry for garnish

#GoldenCompassCocktail #BourbonCocktail #CocktailRecipe 

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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.

The Ultimate Wild Turkey Cocktail Recipe

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Thirsty Thursday Cocktails – Episode 35: The “Wild Honey Old Fashioned”

Get ready to elevate your cocktail game with our latest creation: the Wild Honey Old Fashioned. This isn’t just any Old Fashioned recipe—it’s a rich, smooth, and unforgettable twist on a timeless classic. We’re showing you how to perfectly blend two iconic products from Wild Turkey: the bold, high-proof Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon and the sweet, velvety Wild Turkey American Honey Liqueur.

Say goodbye to boring simple syrup! The American Honey adds a delicious, natural sweetness and a complex honey flavor that perfectly complements the spicy oak and caramel notes of the 101 Bourbon. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon aficionado or a curious beginner, this easy-to-make cocktail is sure to impress.

In this video, you’ll learn:

  • How to make a balanced and flavorful Old Fashioned.
  • The secret to using Wild Turkey American Honey for a unique sweetness.
  • Tips for the perfect garnish to complete your drink.
  • Why the Wild Turkey 101 is the ultimate choice for a high-proof bourbon cocktail.

Don’t miss out on this incredible recipe! Click Play Now ➡️

If you love whiskey, cocktails, and supporting local distilleries, you won’t want to miss this. 

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💬 Share your thoughts and favorite cocktail twists in the comments! 

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Cheers to better drinks! 🥂

#OldFashioned #AmericanHoney #WildTurkey101

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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.

Elevate Your Cocktail Game! (Spicy Paper Plane)

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🛫 The Upgraded Flight: A Spicy Twist on the Paper Plane! 🥃

Get ready to take off with the Upgraded Flight, our sensational riff on the classic Paper Plane cocktail! In this Thirsty Thursday Episode 34, we’re elevating your cocktail game with a recipe that’s more spirit-forward and complex than its inspiration.

We start with Russell’s 10-Year-Old Bourbon, giving this drink a rich, smooth backbone. We then balance it with Aperol and Amaro Nonino, which brings a beautiful, bittersweet harmony. But here’s where the Upgraded Flight truly soars: a few dashes of habanero bitters add a layer of spicy complexity and aromatic intrigue that you won’t find in the original.

This isn’t your average cocktail—it’s a journey for your taste buds. We’ll show you how to perfectly shake it to a frosty chill and serve it up neat in a chilled coupe glass for that elegant touch. The finishing flourish? A delicate lemon twist, which adds a bright citrus aroma that perfectly complements the drink’s depth.

Ready to craft this sophisticated sipper? Grab your shaker and let’s get mixing!

If you love mixing up great cocktails, you won’t want to miss this. Click Play Now ➡️

Don’t miss a single sip! Be sure to watch the full video to see the magic happen and learn all our tips and tricks for making the perfect Upgraded Flight cocktail. If you enjoy delicious drinks and learning new recipes, make sure to subscribe to our channel and hit the notification bell so you don’t miss next week’s Thirsty Thursday episode!

👍 If you loved this recipe, give us a thumbs up! 

💬 Share your thoughts and favorite cocktail twists in the comments! 

➡️ Hit that SHARE button and spread the whiskey love! 

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Cheers to better drinks! 🥂

Upgraded Flight Cocktail Recipe

  • 2 oz Russell’s 10-Year Bourbon
  • 1 oz Aperol
  • 1 oz Amaro Nonino
  • 1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 2 dashes Habanero Bitters

#bourboncocktails #PaperPlane #UpgradedFlight 

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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.

Kansas City Old Fashioned Like You’ve Never Seen!

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Thirsty Thursday Cocktails – Episode 33: The “Midwesterner” Old Fashioned

Tired of the same ole Old Fashioned recipe? Get ready to elevate your cocktail game with The Midwesterner, a robust and earthy twist on a timeless classic. In this video, we’re crafting the perfect drink to highlight the incredible flavors of Tom’s Town Straight Rye Whiskey.

This isn’t your average whiskey cocktail. We’re leaning into the whiskey’s natural notes of toasted bread, dark chocolate, and spice by adding just two dashes of Aztec Chocolate Bitters. Paired with rich Demerara Syrup and classic Angostura, this recipe creates a bold, complex, and unbelievably smooth sipper.

Whether you’re a seasoned home bartender or just getting started, this rye whiskey Old Fashioned is a must-try. We’ll walk you through the simple steps to make this fantastic cocktail, from chilling your glass to the perfect stir.

Ready to mix up something new?

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz Tom’s Town Straight Rye Whiskey
  • 1/2 oz Demerara Syrup
  • 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
  • 3 dashes Aztec Chocolate Bitters

If you love whiskey, cocktails, and supporting local distilleries, you won’t want to miss this. Click Play Now ➡️

👍 If you loved this recipe, give us a thumbs up! 

💬 Share your thoughts and favorite cocktail twists in the comments! 

➡️ Hit that SHARE button and spread the whiskey love! 

🔔 Make sure you SUBSCRIBE and click the bell for weekly cocktail inspiration you won’t want to miss!

Cheers to better drinks! 🥂

#OldFashioned #RyeWhiskey #TomstownDistilling

Tom’s Town Review

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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.