It’s often said that a little alcohol can warm you up in the winter, and bourbon certainly fits that bill. This American whiskey, primarily made from corn, boasts a smooth mouthfeel and a natural sweetness, making it a perfect companion during the cold months. Whether sipped neat, on the rocks, or as part of a cocktail, bourbon is as much a staple of winter as hot chocolate or eggnog.
With many ways to enjoy this warming spirit, some bourbon cocktails really shine during the winter season, featuring in-season fruits and warm spices reminiscent of the holidays. Here’s a list of some of the best bourbon cocktails to cozy up with this winter.
Kentucky Mule
A delightful twist on the Moscow Mule, the Kentucky Mule swaps vodka for bourbon, combining it with ginger beer, lime juice, and often served in a copper mug. For extra flair, add mint leaves or apple cider.
Hot Toddy
This classic drink is ideal for combatting winter chills. Typically made with hot water, whiskey, lemon juice, and honey, it can be customized with ingredients like apple cider and spices for added warmth and flavor.
Brown Derby
A refreshing mix of bourbon, grapefruit juice, and honey syrup, the Brown Derby brings a sophisticated yet uncomplicated sweetness. Adding herbs like rosemary can elevate this elegant cocktail.
Maple Bourbon Smash
This drink combines bourbon with the seasonal flavor of maple syrup and your choice of muddled citrus fruits, capturing the spirit of winter perfectly.
Lion’s Tail
An adventurous cocktail that combines bourbon, allspice dram, and bitters, the Lion’s Tail is perfect for those seeking a deeper, spicier flavor experience.
Marshmallow White Russian
A comforting take on the classic White Russian, this version incorporates bourbon with vanilla vodka and coffee liqueur, providing the rich, sweet flavors of toasted marshmallows.
Remixed Old Fashioned
A holiday twist on the timeless Old Fashioned cocktail, this variation uses muddled cranberries or apple cider to add seasonal flavors, making it perfect for festive gatherings.
Bourbon Hot Chocolate
Hot chocolate gets an adult twist with bourbon added into the mix. You can make it rich and sweet by incorporating flavored whiskeys or traditional marshmallows for that cozy touch.
Boulevardier
Similar to a Negroni but with bourbon, the Boulevardier mixes bourbon with sweet vermouth and Campari for a well-balanced cocktail that offers a blend of sweet and bitter notes.
Spiked Eggnog
Elevate traditional eggnog by mixing in bourbon for a delightful holiday treat. The creaminess of the eggnog pairs beautifully with the whiskey.
Warm Spiked Cider
A perfect winter warmer, this drink combines hot apple cider with bourbon and spices, making it a crowd-pleaser for gatherings.
Bourbon Espresso Martini
A modern twist on the classic espresso martini, this cocktail uses bourbon instead of vodka, adding a rich coffee flavor that’s energizing and comforting.
Paper Plane
Invented in 2008, the Paper Plane cocktail balances bourbon, Aperol, amaro, and lemon juice, making for a refreshing and flavorful experience.
John Collins
This refreshing twist replaces gin with bourbon in the classic Collins drink, creating a bubbly and invigorating cocktail perfect for any winter gathering.
Bourbon Manhattan
Swapping rye for bourbon in a traditional Manhattan results in a sweeter, mellower cocktail that’s sophisticated and timeless.
These bourbon cocktails not only warm the body but also the spirit, making them perfect for curling up on a cold winter day or enjoying with friends during the holiday season.