Mixing bourbon opens the door to a world of creativity and flavor exploration, far beyond the boundaries of sipping it neat or on the rocks. Bourbon, with its diverse range of styles and flavors—from sweet and mellow to bold and spicy—offers endless possibilities for crafting new and exciting drinks. Whether you’re working with a classic, well-known brand or a unique small-batch expression, pairing bourbon with the right mixers allows you to tailor each drink to your personal taste, enhancing its depth and complexity.
In this article, we’ll explore the best mixers for bourbon, showcasing how simple ingredients can elevate the spirit while preserving its character. From traditional pairings like bitters and sugar for a perfect Old Fashioned to modern twists using ginger beer, coffee, or seasonal fruits, there’s a mixer to suit every occasion and palate. Whether you’re a bourbon enthusiast or a cocktail novice, these ideas will inspire you to experiment and discover your own signature bourbon drink.
What Is Bourbon?
Bourbon is a distinctly American whiskey, known for its rich flavor, heritage, and strict production standards. To be classified as bourbon, a whiskey must meet several stringent requirements: it must be made from a mash bill containing at least 51% corn, distilled to no more than 160 proof (80% alcohol by volume), and produced exclusively in the United States. These rules, protected by U.S. law, ensure the authenticity and quality of bourbon, setting it apart from other types of whiskey.
Although corn is the primary grain in bourbon, other grains such as rye, wheat, and malted barley are often used in smaller proportions to add complexity to the flavor profile. The high corn content gives bourbon its signature sweetness, while rye contributes a spicy, bold character, and wheat adds a softer, smoother texture. This versatility in grain composition allows distillers to create a wide range of bourbons, from sweet and mellow to robust and spicy, catering to diverse palates.
One of the most defining aspects of bourbon is its aging process. To meet legal requirements, bourbon must be aged in new, charred oak barrels, which play a crucial role in shaping its flavor. Most bourbons are aged for at least two years, though many premium varieties mature for much longer. During this time, the whiskey interacts with the charred wood, absorbing compounds that contribute notes of caramel, vanilla, and smoky oak. This process not only enhances bourbon’s depth and complexity but also imparts its characteristic amber color. Together, these elements make bourbon a uniquely American spirit, beloved for its craftsmanship, history, and rich array of flavors.
What Do You Mix With Bourbon?
When you think of bourbon, iconic brands like Jim Beam, Wild Turkey, and Maker’s Mark often come to mind. Whether you have a favorite or enjoy them all, bourbon’s complex flavors and diverse profiles offer endless possibilities for experimentation.
Mixing bourbons or pairing them with the right mixers allows you to craft your signature drink while exploring the nuanced tastes each bourbon brings to the table. Unlike many spirits, bourbon is remarkably versatile, lending itself beautifully to a range of mixers that enhance rather than overpower its unique characteristics.
Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy bourbon:
Water
Water is one of the simplest and most traditional mixers for bourbon. A splash of water helps unlock the whiskey’s hidden flavors by reducing the alcohol’s intensity, making it easier to detect subtle notes like caramel, vanilla, or spice. This approach is particularly effective for high-proof bourbons, as it tames the heat while revealing their complexity. Adding water allows you to enjoy the essence of bourbon without being overwhelmed, making it a great choice for both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts.
Soda Water
Soda water offers a crisp and refreshing way to mix bourbon. Its carbonation cuts through the bold flavors of the whiskey, creating a balanced and effervescent drink. As a double-carbonated beverage, soda water produces more bubbles than standard sodas, enhancing the bourbon’s aroma and bringing out its hidden layers. Neutral and versatile, soda water lets bourbon’s character remain the focal point while adding a light, invigorating quality to your drink.
Ginger Ale
Ginger ale is a classic pairing for bourbon, delivering a sweet and spicy contrast that complements the whiskey’s depth. Its carbonation adds texture and liveliness, while the high acidity brightens and balances the bourbon’s rich flavors. This combination creates a smooth, approachable cocktail, perfect for those who want a lighter, refreshing take on bourbon without sacrificing complexity. Whether you’re relaxing at home or entertaining guests, bourbon with ginger ale is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Best mixers for enhancing bourbon’s flavor
Selecting the perfect mixer for bourbon can elevate a simple drink into a sophisticated cocktail, highlighting the whiskey’s inherent richness and complexity. Whether you prefer sweet, spicy, or refreshing combinations, the right mixer can unlock new dimensions of flavor in bourbon, creating a customizable experience to suit any occasion. From the spicy-sweet zing of ginger ale to the tangy brightness of lemonade, each mixer enhances bourbon in its own way, transforming your glass into a masterpiece.
Ginger Ale: A Spicy-Sweet Harmony
Ginger ale is a go-to mixer for bourbon lovers seeking a balanced blend of spice and sweetness. Its warm, slightly zesty ginger flavor complements bourbon’s rich caramel and vanilla undertones, creating a harmonious cocktail with just the right kick. The effervescence of ginger ale adds a lively twist, making this combination both approachable and refreshing. Perfect for casual gatherings or a quiet evening, bourbon with ginger ale offers a sophisticated yet easygoing drink.
Soda Water: Crisp and Refreshing
Soda water is the ultimate choice for those who enjoy bourbon’s natural flavors but want a lighter, more refreshing twist. Its neutrality allows bourbon’s complex notes of oak, caramel, and spice to shine through while its carbonation adds a bubbly texture. This pairing is ideal for those seeking a clean and crisp drink that enhances rather than masks the whiskey’s character. Soda water strikes a perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication.
Cola: A Classic Sweet Base
Cola provides a timeless, sweet foundation for bourbon cocktails, melding seamlessly with the spirit’s caramel and vanilla notes. The sugary richness of cola softens bourbon’s bolder edges, making it a crowd-pleasing option for those who prefer a sweeter cocktail. Whether enjoyed at a casual barbecue or a lively party, bourbon with cola is a classic pairing that never goes out of style.
Lemonade: A Tangy, Refreshing Twist
Lemonade offers a tangy and citrusy counterbalance to bourbon’s inherent sweetness, resulting in a vibrant and refreshing drink. The bright, zesty flavor of lemonade complements bourbon’s caramelized richness, creating a cocktail that’s both sweet and sour. Ideal for warm summer days, this pairing is a delightful alternative to more traditional bourbon mixers, providing a burst of flavor with every sip.
Iced Tea: A Smooth, Southern-Inspired Blend
Iced tea brings a touch of southern charm to bourbon, offering a smooth and mellow complement to the whiskey’s bold, full-bodied flavor. Its gentle sweetness and subtle tannins align beautifully with bourbon’s depth, creating a nuanced cocktail that’s both sophisticated and refreshing. This pairing shines on warm afternoons, providing a relaxing and satisfying way to enjoy bourbon with a classic, regional twist.
Each of these mixers unlocks unique facets of bourbon, inviting you to experiment and create personalized cocktails that cater to your tastes. Whether you prefer sweet, spicy, or tangy, these options ensure that bourbon remains the star of your drink while enhancing its already exceptional qualities.
Why use mixers with bourbon
Utilizing mixers with bourbon serves to broaden the spectrum of the drinking experience, making the spirit’s rich flavor profile more accessible and enjoyable. Mixers can temper the intensity of bourbon, offering a smoother entry point for novices while providing connoisseurs the opportunity to explore new dimensions of taste. For instance, the addition of ginger ale not only complements the spicy notes of a high rye bourbon but can also unveil the subtle sweetness hidden within, creating a harmonious blend that might not be as apparent when sipped neat.
Similarly, a wheated bourbon, known for its softer flavor profile, can be beautifully accentuated with lemonade, highlighting its sweet and mellow character without overpowering it. Moreover, mixers like soda water can dilute the bourbon just enough to make its complex flavors more approachable to those who might find straight bourbon too potent. This customization allows drinkers to tailor their beverages to their taste preferences, whether they’re in the mood for a refreshing summer cocktail with a citrus twist or a warm, comforting mix that’s perfect for colder months.
Through the strategic pairing of mixers, bourbon’s sweet, spicy, or oaky notes can be amplified, enhancing the overall flavor and appeal of the drink. This versatility ensures that bourbon can be appreciated in a variety of settings and preferences, making it a dynamic choice for any occasion. The thoughtful selection of mixers based on the unique flavor profile of different types of bourbon—be it a bold, spicy high rye or a smooth, sweet wheated bourbon—can transform a simple mixture into an exquisite cocktail experience, further showcasing bourbon’s adaptability and depth.
What Are The Best Bourbon Whiskey Mixed Drinks?
Bourbon whiskey mixed drinks are a delightful way to enjoy the rich flavors of this iconic spirit while adding a creative twist. These bourbon cocktails are not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to pair with a variety of foods, from hearty steaks to casual barbecue dishes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or relaxing on a warm summer evening, these classic bourbon cocktails are sure to impress.
Boulevardier Cocktail
The Boulevardier Cocktail is a sophisticated drink with origins dating back to the 1920s. This timeless classic combines bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari for a perfectly balanced blend of bold and bitter flavors. The bourbon provides a warm, robust base, while the Campari adds a unique, slightly bitter complexity. Sweet vermouth rounds out the drink with smooth, herbal notes, making it a refined choice for unwinding after work or savoring after a delicious dinner. Serve it over ice with an orange twist for a drink that’s as elegant as it is flavorful.
Kentucky Mule
The Kentucky Mule is a refreshing and lively cocktail that’s perfect for warm weather. A bourbon twist on the classic Moscow Mule, this drink blends bourbon with ginger beer, fresh lime juice, and a sprig of mint for garnish. The result is a spicy, sweet, and slightly tangy drink with a hint of minty freshness. Often described as an “adult version” of the Dark and Stormy, the Kentucky Mule pairs beautifully with comfort foods like barbecue ribs, cheeseburgers, or spicy chicken wings. Serve it in a copper mug for an authentic and chilled experience.
Classic Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is the quintessential bourbon cocktail, beloved for its simplicity and timeless appeal. This version balances the boldness of overproof bourbon with a touch of simple syrup, bitters, and a twist of citrus, creating a drink that’s both boozy and refreshingly sweet. The orange peel and bitters elevate the flavors, adding layers of complexity that make the Old Fashioned a go-to cocktail for any occasion. It’s a crowd-pleaser at parties and a perfect choice for a quiet evening, embodying the art of classic mixology in every sip.
These bourbon cocktails highlight the spirit’s versatility and depth, offering something for every palate and occasion. Whether you prefer a bold, bitter Boulevardier, a refreshing Kentucky Mule, or the timeless charm of an Old Fashioned, these drinks are sure to elevate your bourbon experience.
What To Mix With Maker’s Mark Bourbon
Maker’s Mark Bourbon is a standout whiskey that shines on its own, but if you’re looking to switch things up, there are plenty of mixers that can complement its smooth caramel and vanilla notes. For a refreshing option, try pairing it with ginger ale or soda water, or add a citrusy twist with lemonade. If you’re in the mood for something classic, Maker’s Mark makes a fantastic base for cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Manhattan. For a sweeter take, cola or iced tea can provide a familiar yet flavorful pairing. These simple mixers open the door to a variety of delicious combinations, perfect for exploring new ways to enjoy your bourbon. Here are some additional ideas on what to mix with Maker’s Mark bourbon as well.
Maraschino Cherry
The Maraschino cherry is a sweet, sour, and astringent ingredient. This makes it perfect for mixing with Maker’s Mark bourbon, which has sweet notes that complement the tartness of the Maraschino cherry. Adding a maraschino cherry to Maker’s Mark gives the drink a sweet, floral taste.
Champagne
Champagne is arguably the most versatile sidekick to Maker’s Mark. The effervescence of this sparkling wine complements the vanilla, orange, and caramel notes in a highball, or if you prefer something stronger, go for a cocktail like the Sazerac or Vieux Carre.
Sweet Vermouth
Maker’s Mark + Sweet Vermouth = Manhattan. It’s one of the most popular cocktails out there, and it’s easy to make. Just mix Maker’s Mark with equal parts sweet vermouth, add some bitters and ice to a glass, and stir until chilled. Sweet vermouth adds a subtly sweet, fruity, and wine-like taste to your drink.
What Should You Drink With Wild Turkey Bourbon Whiskey?
Wild Turkey bourbon whiskey is renowned for its bold, full-bodied flavor and rich heritage, making it a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts. Crafted with a high rye content in its mash bill and aged in deeply charred oak barrels, Wild Turkey delivers a robust profile characterized by warm notes of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak, accompanied by a subtle spiciness. Its higher proof and rich complexity make it a versatile whiskey that holds its own whether sipped neat, on the rocks, or blended into a cocktail. Wild Turkey’s distinct character is both powerful and smooth, providing the perfect canvas for exploring a variety of mixers to suit your taste.
If you’re looking to mix with Wild Turkey bourbon whiskey, try these mixers:
Lemonade
The perfect complement to a shot of Wild Turkey bourbon whiskey, lemonade is refreshing and light. It has just the right amount of sweet and sour to go with the whiskey’s strong flavor without overpowering it. This makes it a great choice for mixing.
Coca-Cola
Coca-Cola is the best choice to mix with Wild Turkey. Mixing a Wild Turkey drink with coke gives it a sweet and fizzy edge. The soda does well to temper the bourbon’s strong bite and rounds out the whiskey’s strong flavor.
Cranberry Juice
Cranberry juice is a delicious mixer that pairs perfectly with Wild Turkey. It’s sweet and bright enough to bring out the berries in the whiskey while also perfectly complementing its caramel and spice notes. It’s also both low-calorie and low-carb, so you’ll be much less likely to overdo it.
What Should I Mix With Bulleit Bourbon?
Bulleit Bourbon is known for its bold, spicy character and complex flavor profile, making it a standout choice for bourbon enthusiasts. With its high rye content and smooth, oaky finish, it’s a favorite among seasoned whiskey drinkers, but its intensity can be a bit daunting for first-timers. Despite its robust personality, Bulleit’s balanced notes of caramel, vanilla, and dried fruit make it surprisingly versatile, allowing it to shine in both straightforward pours and creative cocktails. Whether you’re new to bourbon or looking for approachable ways to enjoy Bulleit, it’s a whiskey that can be enjoyed without overwhelming the palate.
Here are three simple ways to mix in some Bulleit bourbon without overwhelming beginners or your taste buds.
Ginger Beer
If you’re a fan of a classic cocktail, try mixing this bourbon with ginger beer for a refreshing drink. If you’re looking for something a little different with your Bulleit Bourbon, try ginger beer. It’s spicy and refreshing, and it goes great with Bulleit’s classic Kentucky bourbon flavors. It has just enough sweetness to complement the deep, caramel notes of the Bulleit, but not so much that the delicious whiskey flavor is lost.
Citrus Juice
Use citrus juice to give your cocktail great flavor and crispness. It adds a touch of acidity and sweetness to the whole drink, marrying well with the woody, earthy tone that Bulleit is known for.
Syrup
Bulleit bourbon is the perfect whiskey to mix with syrup because of the vanilla, honey, and caramel flavors that come through so well when mixed. Try a Bulleit peach syrup or a Bulleit ginger ale.
What Should I Mix With Knob Creek Bourbon?
Knob Creek bourbon is a standout choice for those who appreciate a rich, full-bodied whiskey with a touch of craftsmanship. Known for its robust 100-proof strength, Knob Creek delivers deep, complex flavors with notes of caramel, vanilla, toasted nuts, and a hint of spice from its high rye content. Its bold profile is balanced by a smooth, oaky finish, thanks to its extended aging in deeply charred barrels. This makes Knob Creek incredibly versatile, offering a perfect foundation for a wide variety of mixers and cocktails. Whether you’re looking to enhance its natural sweetness or complement its smoky undertones, there are countless ways to mix Knob Creek bourbon to suit any mood or occasion.
The possibilities are endless, but here is a list of options to get you started.
Vanilla Ice Cream
Vanilla ice cream and Knob Creek go well together because their tastes go well with each other. The vanilla ice cream balances the smoky, spicy finish of the bourbon and makes it smoother.
Brandy
If you want to improve your Knob Creek experience, Knob Creek bourbon is a tasty choice. Brandy is produced by combining brandy with spirits that have been distilled from wine. The mellowing of this spicy drink makes it even smoother than other bourbons.
Chocolate Liqueurs
Mix Knob Creek with chocolate liqueur for a unique twist on traditional cocktails. Sweet vermouth and bitters give Knob Creek Chocolate a subtle kick.
What Should You Drink With Yellowstone Bourbon?
Yellowstone bourbon offers a one-of-a-kind experience, combining smoothness with a rich complexity that delights the palate. Crafted with care and aged to perfection, this bourbon boasts a well-balanced profile featuring notes of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak, complemented by subtle hints of citrus, dried fruit, and spice. Its layered flavors and velvety texture make it an excellent choice for both sipping and mixing. While it’s exceptional on its own, pairing Yellowstone bourbon with other flavors can elevate its intricate character, bringing out its sweet, smoky, and zesty undertones. The best way to enjoy its many layers is to mix it with other flavors. Try these:
Fernet Branca foam
With a creamy foam that’s sweet, minty, and bitter on the tongue, Fernet Branca pairs well with bourbon. It’s a real elixir that makes any cocktail better, whether it’s used as a foam, float, or mixed with bitters for a dash of aromatic bitterness.
Sweet Tea
Sweet tea is the perfect companion to any bourbon, as it helps bring out the flavors in the drink. Brew a pitcher of your favorite tea, add some sugar, and serve it with slices of lemon.
Fresh Fruit Juice
Fresh fruit juice is a refreshing drink that complements the flavor of a rich bourbon like Yellowstone. Fresh fruit juices, like apple, orange, and pineapple, bring out the minerality in the bourbon and make it bolder.
What Should I Mix With Apple Bourbon?
Apple bourbon is a delicious, sweet liquor that can be used for drinking on its own or as the basis for other cocktails. Apple bourbon is a fruity drink with only a hint of sweetness, light brown sugar, and musky undertones. It pairs well with cola and ginger ale to make an alcoholic version of root beer, or use it in a Mint Julep or Whiskey Sour recipe.
What Should I Mix With Peach Bourbon?
No matter how many types of bourbon you happen to have on hand, mixing a great cocktail requires getting creative and thinking outside the box. This is especially true if your favorite spirit happens to be peach bourbon. Try mixing your peach bourbon with ginger beer, ginger ale, lemon-lime soda, and a splash of cranberry juice.
What Should I Mix With Honey Bourbon?
Honey Bourbon is a whiskey cocktail designed to be mixed with sweet, syrupy flavors. Common honey bourbons include Jack Daniels Honey, Fireball Cinnamon Whisky, and Abita Turbodog. Use an aged whiskey for a smooth mixed drink that won’t overpower the taste of honey. Other good options include gin, rum, and vodka.
What Should I Mix With Brown Sugar And Bourbon?
Brown sugar bourbon is a unique blend of flavors that makes for some delicious cocktails. A perfect complement to brown sugar bourbon would be anything that adds sweetness and spice, like ginger beer with lime or orange liqueur.
What Should I Mix With Maple Bourbon?
While you could enjoy maple bourbon neat, we recommend adding it to some of your favorite cocktails. Some popular maple bourbon drinks are the Big Rock Rainmaker, with maple syrup and lemon juice, or the Maple Old Fashioned, which combines the spirit with vermouth, orange bitters, and angostura. If you want to make a sweet drink, try mixing it with sparkling water and stirring in some simple syrup made from maple syrup.
Tips for mixing bourbon drinks
Crafting the perfect bourbon cocktail is an art that hinges on a few essential principles. Starting with quality bourbon is crucial, as the caliber of the whiskey sets the stage for the drink. Achieving a harmonious balance between sweetness and acidity is key to ensuring that the flavors meld seamlessly, without one overshadowing the other.
Moreover, incorporating fresh ingredients for garnishes can significantly elevate the cocktail, adding a layer of complexity and freshness that enhances the overall experience. Measuring ingredients accurately is vital for consistency, ensuring each cocktail tastes as intended. Understanding when to stir vs. shake a cocktail can also impact the outcome; stirring is generally preferred for clear, spirit-forward drinks to maintain clarity and texture, while shaking is suited for cocktails with citrus or dairy, creating a well-integrated mix. The temperature and dilution from ice can dramatically affect the drink’s final taste, making it essential to use ice properly to achieve the desired balance. These tips not only aid in the creation of delightful bourbon concoctions but also empower enthusiasts to customize their drinks to their liking, making each sip a personalized indulgence.
Start with quality bourbon
Choosing quality bourbon is paramount when mixing drinks. A superior whiskey brings rich, complex flavors to the cocktail, laying a solid foundation for an extraordinary beverage. This initial step is crucial for ensuring the final drink meets the high expectations of bourbon enthusiasts.
Balance sweetness with acidity
Achieving a perfect balance between sweetness and acidity is essential for crafting a bourbon cocktail that’s both invigorating and satisfying. This balance prevents the sweetness from becoming overwhelming, allowing the nuanced flavors of the bourbon to shine through, complemented by a refreshing acidity.
Use fresh ingredients for garnishes
Utilizing fresh ingredients for garnishes not only enhances the visual appeal of a bourbon cocktail but also adds a layer of aromatic complexity. Fresh herbs, fruits, and citrus peels can dramatically improve the overall flavor profile, making each sip a more vibrant and engaging experience.
Measure ingredients accurately
Measuring ingredients accurately is crucial for the consistency of your cocktails. Use a jigger or measuring spoon to ensure that each component of your cocktail is added in the correct proportion, maintaining the intended flavor balance and strength of the drink.
Stir vs. Shake
Understanding whether to stir or shake a cocktail can greatly influence its texture and clarity. Stirring is best for drinks that are primarily composed of spirits, as it gently combines the ingredients while preserving their clarity and smoothness. Shaking is recommended for cocktails with mixers, citrus, or egg whites, as it thoroughly integrates the ingredients and adds aeration, resulting in a more vibrant and textured drink.
Consider temperature and dilution
The temperature and dilution of your cocktail are key factors in its final taste. Use ice made from clean, fresh water to avoid introducing off-flavors. Be mindful of the size and shape of the ice, as it affects how quickly it melts and dilutes the drink.
Larger cubes or spheres melt more slowly, making them ideal for drinks you wish to keep strong and less diluted over time.
What Are The Frequently Asked Questions?
Other Than Coke, What Else Can I Mix With Bourbon?
If you’re ready to move beyond classic bourbon cocktails like Old Fashioneds and Manhattans, then it’s time to experiment with different base spirits.
One of the easiest things to mix with bourbon, beyond the obvious choice of coke, is ginger ale. Ginger is a natural pairing with Kentucky’s finest, and ordering one of these nine unique drinks will help you get acquainted with all that bourbon has to offer.
How To Mix Bourbon And Eggnog
Mixing bourbon and eggnog is a happy medium between the two classics. The taste of bourbon is more mellow and less spicy than other liquors, but not too sweet like eggnog. Try mixing 1/2 cup of bourbon with two cups of nonfat milk or one cup of milk and one cup of eggnog to make an amazing nightcap. You can also use rum instead of bourbon, or try other liquors in place of either one.
Conclusion
Bourbon is also often used to mix drinks because it has a lot of different tastes and levels of sweetness. Generally, the ratio for mixing bourbon is 1:1, but it all depends on your personal preference. The most important thing is that you should blend the right ingredients in the right way. So, once you have some idea of how to mix bourbon drinks, you can experiment with mixing different brands of bourbon and see for yourself which one tastes the best.
