Indulge in the exquisite taste of the Bourbon Renewal cocktail, a versatile concoction that caters to both tangy and sweet preferences. This adaptation offers a delightful happy hour experience that will tantalize your taste buds.
Greetings, fellow cocktail enthusiasts! I hope your week is off to a great start.
Recently, I had the pleasure of spending some time in Seattle, Washington, attending the Seattle Food and Wine Experience. The experience was simply amazing, and I’m excited to share my experiences with you all.
At the event, I had the honor of discovering many new food, wine, beer, cider, and spirits brands. There are so many great beverage companies and products in the Pacific Northwest, and I can’t wait to share my favorites with you.
In the meantime, let’s focus on today’s cocktail. While today is known as National Margarita Day, I thought I’d share one of my all-time favorite cocktails for this week’s Mixology Monday: the Bourbon Renewal.
The Bourbon Renewal: A Classic Cocktail Reimagined
The Bourbon Renewal is more than just a drink; it’s an experience. The first time I had this cocktail was at Clyde Common in Portland, Oregon, many years ago. It was a revelation. I have a deep appreciation for bourbon, and this cocktail celebrates its rich flavor with just the right balance of sweetness and a bright citrusy zest.
The Bourbon Renewal is attributed to bartender Jeffrey Morgenthaler, and it is said that the cocktail was named after a band that his former business partner was in. Morgenthaler is a revered figure in the mixology world, and any cocktail you try at Clyde Common is guaranteed to be phenomenal. It’s one of my favorite places to go for happy hour.
My own version of the Bourbon Renewal is a slight adaptation of the original. I often find myself without creme de cassis, so I typically substitute it with black currant syrup, raspberry liqueur, or even marionberry liqueur. If you happen to have creme de cassis on hand, don’t hesitate to use it!
Additionally, I usually opt for The Bitter Housewife’s Aromatic Bitters instead of Angostura bitters, but if you have Angostura bitters at your disposal, feel free to use them.
Bourbon Renewal Cocktail Recipe
Craft your own Bourbon Renewal at home with this easy-to-follow recipe. Enjoy the perfect balance of bourbon, citrus, and sweetness.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz black currant syrup (or raspberry liqueur or creme de cassis)
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 2-3 dashes aromatic bitters (or Angostura bitters)
- Garnish: Lemon wedge, blackberries, or currants
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
- Shake well until the shaker feels chilled.
- Strain into an old-fashioned glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a lemon wedge, blackberries, or currants.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and boozy.
Notes: For a less sweet cocktail, reduce the simple syrup to ½ oz. This recipe is adapted from Jeffrey Morgenthaler’s original.
Tips for Making the Perfect Bourbon Renewal
- Use Quality Bourbon: Since bourbon is the star of this cocktail, using a high-quality bourbon will make a noticeable difference in the final product.
- Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for a bright, citrusy flavor. Avoid using bottled lemon juice, as it lacks the same vibrancy.
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste: The amount of simple syrup can be adjusted to suit your personal preference. If you prefer a less sweet cocktail, start with ½ oz and add more to taste.
- Experiment with Bitters: While Angostura bitters are a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other aromatic bitters to add complexity to the cocktail.
- Get Creative with Garnishes: While a lemon wedge is a simple and classic garnish, don’t be afraid to get creative. Blackberries, currants, or even a sprig of rosemary can add visual appeal and enhance the aroma of the cocktail.
Variations of the Bourbon Renewal
The Bourbon Renewal is a versatile cocktail that can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations to try:
- Spiced Bourbon Renewal: Add a dash of cinnamon or cardamom bitters for a warm, spiced twist.
- Berry Bourbon Renewal: Muddle fresh raspberries or blackberries in the shaker before adding the other ingredients for a fruity variation.
- Smoked Bourbon Renewal: Use smoked bourbon or add a few drops of liquid smoke to the shaker for a smoky flavor profile.
- Herbal Bourbon Renewal: Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme to the shaker for an herbaceous twist.
Pairing Suggestions
The Bourbon Renewal is a versatile cocktail that pairs well with a variety of foods. Here are a few suggestions:
- Appetizers: Cheese and charcuterie board, spicy nuts, or bacon-wrapped dates.
- Main Courses: Grilled steak, roasted chicken, or barbecue ribs.
- Desserts: Chocolate cake, pecan pie, or caramel apples.
The History of the Bourbon Renewal
The Bourbon Renewal was created by Jeffrey Morgenthaler, a renowned bartender and cocktail expert. It quickly gained popularity and has become a modern classic, enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts around the world.
Why the Bourbon Renewal is a Perfect Cocktail for Any Occasion
The Bourbon Renewal is an excellent choice for any occasion because it is:
- Easy to make: The recipe requires only a few simple ingredients and can be prepared in minutes.
- Versatile: The cocktail can be customized to suit your personal taste preferences.
- Impressive: The Bourbon Renewal is a sophisticated cocktail that is sure to impress your guests.
- Delicious: The combination of bourbon, citrus, and sweetness is simply irresistible.
Looking for More Cocktail Inspiration?
If you’re eager to expand your cocktail repertoire, here are a few more recipes you might enjoy:
Rosemary Citrus Old Fashioned: A warm and inviting twist on a classic.
Backyard Collins: A refreshing gin cocktail perfect for summer days.
The Mrs. cocktail: An elegant and sophisticated Lillet Blanc cocktail.
What’s your favorite bourbon cocktail? If you’re not a bourbon fan, what is your favorite cocktail or mocktail?