Rich & Tangy Bourbon Cherry Cocktail Delight
(0 Reviews)
Ingredients
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120 ml Bourbon whiskey
(Choose a quality bourbon for smoothness)
-
80 ml Sour cherry juice
(Fresh or unsweetened bottled juice preferred)
-
20 ml Fresh Lemon Juice
(about half a lemon)
-
15 ml Maple syrup
(Adds natural sweetness balancing the sourness)
-
3 dashes Angostura bitters
(Classic aromatic enhancement)
-
Enough pieces Ice Cubes
(For shaking and serving)
-
4 pieces Fresh sour cherries
(For garnish, pitted)
-
1 piece Lemon twist
(For garnish)
(Choose a quality bourbon for smoothness)
(Fresh or unsweetened bottled juice preferred)
(about half a lemon)
(Adds natural sweetness balancing the sourness)
(Classic aromatic enhancement)
(For shaking and serving)
(For garnish, pitted)
(For garnish)
Nutrition
- Servings: 2
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail glass
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Calcium: 15 mg
- Iron: 0.1 mg
Instructions
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1 - Combine Ingredients:
In a cocktail shaker, pour bourbon whiskey, sour cherry juice, fresh lemon juice, and maple syrup.
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2 - Add Bitters & Ice:
Add Angostura bitters (if using) and fill shaker with ice cubes to chill the mixture.
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3 - Shake Vigorously:
Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled and mixed.
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4 - Strain & Serve:
Strain the cocktail into two chilled glasses over fresh ice if desired.
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5 - Garnish:
Garnish each glass with fresh sour cherries skewered and a lemon twist on the rim.
In a cocktail shaker, pour bourbon whiskey, sour cherry juice, fresh lemon juice, and maple syrup.
Add Angostura bitters (if using) and fill shaker with ice cubes to chill the mixture.
Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled and mixed.
Strain the cocktail into two chilled glasses over fresh ice if desired.
Garnish each glass with fresh sour cherries skewered and a lemon twist on the rim.
More About: Rich & Tangy Bourbon Cherry Cocktail Delight
Summary
The Sour Cherry Bourbon Swing is a refreshing, tantalizing cocktail combining the bold depth of bourbon whiskey with the tart brightness of sour cherries, complemented by a zesty lemon accent and a touch of natural sweetness from maple syrup. It elevates the traditional whiskey cocktail with a vibrant fruity flair that surprises and enchants the palate.
Tips & Notes
- Choosing the Bourbon: A smoother, caramel-leaning bourbon complements the sourness best, but any quality bourbon will work. Avoid heavily peated or smoky variants as they may overpower the delicate sour cherry.
- Sour Cherry Juice: Fresh squeezed juice from ripe sour cherries brings vivid flavor and balanced acidity. When fresh cherries are not available, seek a high-quality unsweetened sour cherry juice without additives.
- Adjust Sweetness: Maple syrup adds complexity contrasting the sour base; adjust quantity according to your taste or substitute with simple syrup or honey.
- Bitters Added Depth: Angostura bitters contribute aromatic liners that enhance the cocktail's nuanced complexity but remain optional.
- Garnish Choices: Besides fresh cherries and lemon turns as guidance, try candied ginger or a sprig of rosemary for additional aromatics.
History & Cultural Significance
While bourbon cocktails are deeply rooted in American Southern and Kentucky traditions, incorporating seasonal fruits like sour cherries reflects innovation embraced globally by mixologists in recent decades. Sour cherries themselves are notable in central and eastern European culinary histories — marrying them fruitfully with American bourbon highlights the evolving global fusion of cocktail craft.
Unique Aspects & Personal Thoughts
This drink is uniquely balanced: the playful tartness dances with the rich warmth of bourbon creating an invigorating juxtaposition perfect for year-round celebration. It encourages playful experimentation with modern and classic sensibilities combined. Personally, it strikes me as a perfect cocktail for lively gatherings, where the intense cherry hues match the invigorated mood of good company and spirited conversations.
Whether for an experienced mixologist or an adventurous home bartender, the 'Sour Cherry Bourbon Swing' invigorates traditional whiskey cocktails by embracing natural, fresh ingredients with skillful taste harmony.
