Stir Up a New Drink!
Bourbon is a versatile spirit, offering a rich, complex base for creating cocktails that range from classic to inventive. The type of bourbon you choose can significantly influence the flavor profile of your drink. Two popular choices, Maker’s Mark and Basil Hayden, offer contrasting characteristics that make them ideal for different cocktails. Maker’s Mark, with its wheated mash bill, delivers a smoother, sweeter flavor, perfect for balancing bold ingredients. On the other hand, Basil Hayden's high-rye content offers a spicier, peppery edge, making it a standout in recipes that benefit from a bolder bourbon presence.
Let’s dive into five unique bourbon cocktails that showcase the versatility of these two beloved bourbons.
1. Bourbon Smash
A Bourbon Smash is a refreshing and vibrant cocktail that combines the richness of bourbon with the brightness of citrus and mint. It's a versatile drink perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon (Maker's Mark for a sweeter profile or Basil Hayden for a spicier edge)
- 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3/4 oz simple syrup (adjust for taste)
- 4-6 fresh mint leaves (include a sprig for garnish)
- Crushed ice
- Lemon wedge, for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a glass halfway with crushed ice.
- In a cocktail shaker, gently muddle the fresh mint leaves and simple syrup. Don't tear the mint into small pieces or it will taste bitter.
- Add lemon juice and bourbon to the cocktail shaker, and add ice.
- Secure the cocktail shaker and shake it for 10-15 seconds.
- Strain the mixture over the crushed ice in your glass.
- Add your garnishes and enjoy!
2. Smoky Maple Sour
A twist on the classic Whiskey Sour, this cocktail incorporates smoky flavors and maple syrup for a rich, autumnal drink.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Maker's Mark (for a sweeter base) or Basil Hayden (for spicier depth)
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz pure maple syrup
- 1/4 oz smoked simple syrup
- 1 egg white (optional, for froth)
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a shaker without ice and dry shake to emulsify the egg white.
- Add ice and shake again until chilled.
- Strain into a coupe glass and garnish with a lemon twist or a sprinkle of smoked salt.
Maker's Mark enhances the maple's sweetness, while Basil Hayden brings a spicy complexity to this cozy cocktail.
3. Spiced Old Fashioned
This version of the Old Fashioned incorporates a blend of warm spices for a festive twist.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Basil Hayden (for a spicy kick) or Maker's Mark (for a smoother finish)
- 1 sugar cube
- 3 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 dash cardamom bitters
- Orange peel and cinnamon stick, for garnish
Instructions
- Muddle the sugar cube with bitters in a glass.
- Add ice and pour in the bourbon.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with an orange peel and a cinnamon stick.
The spiciness of Basil Hayden elevates the warm spices, while Maker's Mark creates a balanced, mellow drink.
4. Honey Bourbon Fizz
This light, effervescent cocktail is perfect for warm evenings or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Maker's Mark (for a smooth base) or Basil Hayden (for more pronounced flavors)
- 3/4 oz honey syrup (honey mixed with water)
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- Club soda
- Fresh mint, for garnish
Instructions
- Combine bourbon, honey syrup, and lime juice in a shaker with ice. Shake well.
- Strain into a highball glass filled with ice.
- Top with club soda and garnish with a sprig of mint.
Maker’s Mark enhances the honey’s sweetness, while Basil Hayden gives the fizz a refreshing, spicy undertone.
5. Blackberry Bourbon Smash
This vibrant cocktail combines fresh blackberries and mint for a fruity, herbaceous drink.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Maker's Mark (for a sweeter profile) or Basil Hayden (for a spicier edge)
- 5 fresh blackberries
- 4 fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- Crushed ice
Instructions
- Muddle blackberries, mint, and simple syrup in a shaker.
- Add bourbon, lemon juice, and ice, then shake well.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice.
- Garnish with a mint sprig and a couple of blackberries.
Maker’s Mark highlights the fruity sweetness, while Basil Hayden adds a bold contrast to the berries and mint.
6. Bourbon Cold Brew Flip
For coffee lovers, this creamy cocktail combines bourbon and cold brew for a decadent treat.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Maker's Mark (for a smooth finish) or Basil Hayden (for a more robust flavor)
- 1 oz cold brew coffee
- 1/2 oz coffee liqueur
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 1 egg yolk
- Freshly grated nutmeg, for garnish
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a shaker without ice and dry shake to emulsify the egg yolk.
- Add ice and shake vigorously until chilled.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with freshly grated nutmeg.
Maker’s Mark creates a creamy, seamless blend with the coffee flavors, while Basil Hayden offers a delightful spicy contrast.