7 of the Best Bourbon Cocktails to Mix Up
Bourbon is a versatile and unique spirit that allows for an array of cocktails, whether they’re tried and true or totally experimental. Among the vast array of bourbons, Maker's Mark and Basil Hayden stand out amongst the rest. Maker's Mark is enjoyed for its smooth, sweet flavor with notes of vanilla and caramel. Basil Hayden features a rye-forward recipe, giving it a spicier, more complex character. This article will explore some of the best cocktails to make that feature these two unique, delicious bourbons.
1. Brown Derby
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon (Maker's Mark or Basil Hayden)
- 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice
- 1/2 oz honey syrup (equal parts honey and water)
- Grapefruit twist (for garnish)
Directions
- Combine bourbon, grapefruit juice and honey syrup in a shaker with ice.
- Shake well and strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with a grapefruit twist.
Best bourbon choice: Maker's Mark for a softer, fruit-forward finish.
2. Gold Rush
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon (Maker's Mark or Basil Hayden)
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 oz honey syrup
- Lemon wheel (for garnish)
Directions
- Combine bourbon, lemon juice and honey syrup in a shaker with ice.
- Shake vigorously and strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel.
Best bourbon choice: Basil Hayden for added depth and a spicier edge.
3. New York Sour
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon (Maker's Mark or Basil Hayden)
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 1/2 oz red wine (dry, such as Malbec)
- Lemon twist (for garnish)
Directions
- Combine bourbon, lemon juice and simple syrup in a shaker with ice.
- Shake well and strain into a rocks glass with ice.
- Carefully pour the red wine over the back of a spoon to float it on top.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.
Best bourbon choice: Maker's Mark for a harmonious blend of sweetness and acidity.
4. Bourbon Mule
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon (Maker's Mark or Basil Hayden)
- 1/2 oz lime juice
- 4 oz ginger beer
- Lime wedge and mint sprig (for garnish)
Directions
- Fill a copper mug or rocks glass with ice.
- Add bourbon and lime juice, then top with ginger beer.
- Stir gently and garnish with a lime wedge and mint sprig.
Best bourbon choice: Basil Hayden for a spicier, more robust mule.
5. Paper Plane
Ingredients
- 3/4 oz bourbon (Maker's Mark or Basil Hayden)
- 3/4 oz Aperol
- 3/4 oz Amaro Nonino
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- Lemon twist (for garnish)
Directions
- Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice.
- Shake vigorously and strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.
Best bourbon choice: Basil Hayden for its bold flavors that balance the bittersweet notes.
6. Blackberry Bourbon Smash
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon (Maker's Mark or Basil Hayden)
- 4-5 fresh blackberries
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- Club soda
- Mint sprig (for garnish)
Directions
- Muddle blackberries, mint, and simple syrup in a shaker.
- Add bourbon, lemon juice and ice, then shake well.
- Strain into a glass filled with ice and top with club soda.
- Garnish with a mint sprig and blackberry.
Best bourbon choice: Maker's Mark for a sweeter, fruity flavor.
7. Hot Buttered Bourbon
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon (Maker's Mark or Basil Hayden)
- 1 tsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 cup hot water
- Cinnamon stick (for garnish)
Directions
- Combine butter, brown sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg in a mug.
- Add bourbon and hot water, then stir until the butter melts and the mixture is well combined.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Best bourbon choice: Maker's Mark for its warm, buttery sweetness.
Cheers!
Both Maker's Mark and Basil Hayden are equally loved bourbons but for uniquely different reasons. Due to their distinct flavor profiles, they lend themselves to vastly different yet delicious types of cocktails. No matter what your ideal type of cocktail is, you can rest assured that one (or both) of these bourbons will satisfy your craving. Let these recipes inspire your next bourbon adventure.