A quick glance at all my Martini Madness recipes on this blog and you’ll know I have a love for all vodka ‘tinis (rum ones too). I’m really trying to expand my horizons though. Step out of my comfort zone a bit. While I’m not quite ready for a bourbon or whiskey “neat” like most men I know, I did enjoy this Bourbon Cocktail I came up with recently.
I think bourbon is an acquired taste, and one I haven’t quite developed yet. In the past, my only experience with bourbon or whiskey that I truly enjoyed was in the form of pecan bars or homemade Bailey’s Irish Cream. So I knew I needed to cut the strong flavor with something sweet (surprised? probably not). I thought honey or maple syrup would go nice with the bourbon. After a few attempts, I ended up with this cocktail that has Grand Marnier, honey and some lemon juice. I think what I liked about this drink is that the sweetness from the honey syrup, and even the Grand Marnier, is nicely balanced with the sour of the lemon.
If you’re a novice bourbon drinker like me, give this one a try for an introduction to the bourbon drinking world. You might be pleasantly surprised at how drinkable it is. And if you’re a regular bourbon drinker, you just might enjoy a little change of pace once in a while too! Oh, and check out those big round ice cubes! Pretty cool, eh? I got the molds to make them at Crate & Barrel.
Ingredients
- 1 part Bourbon (I used Buffalo Trace)
- .5 part Grand Marnier
- .5 part Honey syrup*
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
Directions
Combine ingredients in cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake to combine and chill, then strain into old fashioned (rocks) glass filled with ice, or one big ice cube.
Garnish with Lemon or Orange peel.
Notes
To make honey syrup, combine equal parts honey and water in small saucepan. Bring to boil, then remove from heat and let cool.
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