What to Mix with Bourbon: Creative Cocktails and Easy Recipes

Bourbon is widely known for having rich, complex flavours that has made it a beloved cocktail base for centuries. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a newly inventive home bartender, learning what to mix with bourbon can completely elevate your cocktail experience. From timeless classics to innovative new ideas, here’s a guide to some of the best bourbon mixers to try at home.  

1. Sugar and bitters

Sugar and bitters are the foundation of some of the most classic bourbon drink ideas to ever grace a cocktail manual. The sweetness of sugar helps to balance the bold, robust flavours of a bourbon like Wild Turkey 101, while bitters add an aromatic depth and complexity.  

This combination creates a nuanced flavour profile that highlights the best qualities of the spirit without overwhelming it. When mixed correctly, sugar and bitters can turn a simple glass of bourbon into an elegant clinker that’s perfect for any occasion. 

• Old Fashioned: A classic cocktail made with bourbon, a sugar cube, a few dashes of bitters, and a twist of citrus peel.  

• Sazerac: Served neat in a chilled, absinthe-coated glass, this New Orleans classic combines bourbon or rye, a sugar cube, Peychaud’s bitters, and an absinthe rinse. 

• Whiskey Sour: A mix of bourbon, fresh lemon juice, egg white, and sugar syrup, often garnished with a cherry or lemon slice. 

DID YOU KNOW? Bitters were originally developed in the 19th century as patent medicines, often containing a mixture of herbs and botanicals believed to have medicinal properties. 

2. Cola

Cola is a popular mixer for bourbon, providing a sweet and fizzy counterpoint to the spirit’s strong and smoky flavour. The caramel and vanilla notes in cola also make it a favourite among those who enjoy a sweeter, more approachable drink. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing combination that works well for casual gatherings and barbecues. 

• Bourbon and cola: Simply mix bourbon and cola over ice for a refreshing, easy-to-make cocktail that’s perfect for any casual occasion. 

3. Campari

Campari is a bold, bitter aperitif that adds a citrusy, herbal flavour to bourbon cocktails. Its bitterness contrasts beautifully with bourbon’s sweetness, creating a sophisticated, complex drink. This mixer is ideal for those who appreciate a more nuanced cocktail experience and enjoy the interplay of different flavours. 

• Boulevardier: Stirred with ice, strained into a glass, and garnished with an orange twist, this rich cocktail combines bourbon, Campari, and sweet vermouth.  

• Old Pal: A drier variation of the Boulevardier, made with bourbon, Campari, and dry vermouth. 

DID YOU KNOW? Campari was invented in 1860 by Gaspare Campari in Novara, Italy. The exact recipe is a closely guarded secret and has remained unchanged since its creation.  

4. Sweet vermouth

Sweet vermouth is a fortified wine infused with herbs and spices, adding a smooth, herbal sweetness to bourbon cocktails. Options like Cinzano Vermouth Rosso pair wonderfully with bourbon, enhancing its depth and complexity. This combination is the backbone of several classic cocktails that have stood the test of time. 

• Manhattan: A timeless cocktail made with bourbon, sweet vermouth, and a few dashes of bitters. 

• Rob Roy: Similar to the Manhattan but made with Scotch instead of bourbon. 

DID YOU KNOW? Cinzano, a well-known brand of sweet vermouth, was founded in 1757 in Turin, Italy, making it one of the oldest vermouth producers in the world. 

5. Sugar syrup

Sugar syrup is a staple in many cocktails the world over, providing a balanced sweetness that enhances bourbon’s flavours without overpowering them. It’s incredibly versatile and easy to make, making it a go-to ingredient for countless bourbon-based drinks. 

• Mint Julep: A Southern American classic made with bourbon, sugar syrup, and fresh mint, served over crushed ice in a julep cup. 

• Whiskey Smash: A refreshing cocktail with bourbon, sugar syrup, fresh lemon, and mint. 

6. Fruit Juice

Fruit juices add a fresh, vibrant element to bourbon cocktails, ushering in some natural sweetness and acidity that can brighten up the spirit. Whether you prefer citrus, berries, or tropical fruits, there’s sure to be a juice that will perfectly elevate your bourbon drinks. 

• Bourbon Lemonade: A summery mix of bourbon, fresh lemonade, and a splash of soda water., 

• Bourbon Orange Smash: Made with bourbon, fresh orange juice, sugar syrup, and a hint of mint. 

For the freshest orange juice, choose ripe oranges and squeeze them just before serving. To enhance flavour, consider adding a touch of lemon juice and a pinch of sugar or honey, if desired. 

7. Spiced honey syrup

Spiced honey syrup adds a warm, aromatic sweetness to bourbon. The spices add an extra layer of complexity, making this mixer ideal for autumn and winter drinks. 

• Honey Bourbon Hot Toddy: A warming drink made with bourbon, spiced honey syrup, hot water, and a squeeze of lemon, served in a mug with a cinnamon stick. 

• Spiced Bourbon Sour: A twist on the classic Whiskey Sour, with bourbon, spiced honey syrup, and fresh lemon juice. 

DID YOU KNOW? Historically, honey has been used as a sweetener and preservative for thousands of years, with evidence dating back to ancient civilisations such as the Egyptians and Greeks, who valued its medicinal properties. 

8. Lavender infused syrup

Lavender syrup gives a unique floral note to bourbon cocktails, setting the scene for a sophisticated and aromatic experience. This delicate flavour pairs surprisingly well with bourbon’s boldness, resulting in an elegant drink. 

• Lavender Bourbon Sour: A delightful mix of bourbon, lavender syrup, and fresh lemon juice, shaken with ice and strained into a glass, garnished with a lavender sprig. 

• Lavender Old Fashioned: A floral twist on the classic Old Fashioned, made with bourbon, lavender syrup, and bitters. 

9. Ginger beer

Ginger beer brings a spicy kick and a touch of sweetness to bourbon cocktails’ effervescence and also adds a pleasant fizziness that can enhance the overall drinking experience. 

• Bourbon Mule: A bourbon twist on the Moscow Mule, made with bourbon, ginger beer, and fresh lime juice. 

• Ginger Bourbon Smash: A spicy cocktail with bourbon, ginger beer, fresh lime, and mint, muddled together and served over ice. 

10. Cold brew coffee

Cold brew coffee enhances bourbon’s rich, robust flavours. This combination is perfect for those who enjoy the deep, roasted notes of coffee paired with the warmth of bourbon. 

• Cold Brew Bourbon: A simple mix of bourbon and cold brew coffee over ice. 

• Coffee Old Fashioned: A twist on the classic Old Fashioned, made with bourbon, cold brew coffee, sugar syrup, bitters, and coffee bean garnish.   

11. Apple cider

Apple cider’s sweet and tart profile complements bourbon beautifully, especially in the autumn.  

• Apple Cider Bourbon: A mix of bourbon and fresh apple cider, served over ice with a cinnamon stick for garnish. 

• Bourbon Apple Fizz: A bubbly cocktail with bourbon, apple cider, a splash of soda water and an apple slice garnish. 

To preserve freshness, store apple cider in the refrigerator at a temperature of 4°C or less. It’s best consumed within 7-10 days of opening for optimal taste and quality. 

Other flavours to consider

The versatility of bourbon pairs well with a variety of flavours. Experimenting with ingredients like oak, caramel, vanilla, cinnamon, and chocolate can enhance the spirit’s natural characteristics in unique and exciting ways. Here’s how you can incorporate each of these flavours into your cocktails: 

• Oak: While you can’t add oak directly to a bourbon cocktail, you can simulate its effects by using barrel-aged bitters or serving the cocktail in a smoked glass. This enhances the bourbon’s woody characteristics, adding depth to drinks like a Smoked Revolver. 

Learn all about making smoked bourbon cocktails HERE. 

• Caramel:  To sweeten bourbon cocktails, add a caramel syrup or drizzle to bring out its natural caramel notes. Try a Caramel Old Fashioned by adding a touch of caramel syrup along with bitters and a twist of orange peel.  
• Vanilla: Infuse vanilla extract or vanilla bean into simple syrup to create a mixer with a vanilla flavour. Use this syrup in cocktails like a Vanilla Bourbon Sour, where it complements the bourbon’s smoothness. 
• Cinnamon: Add a cinnamon stick as a garnish, or infuse bourbon with cinnamon for a warm, spicy kick. Try a Cinnamon Bourbon Hot Toddy, combining the infused bourbon with hot water, honey, and lemon. 
• Chocolate: Use chocolate bitters or a splash of chocolate liqueur to enhance the rich flavours of bourbon.  

More Mixer inspiration: Tequila Mixers | Vodka Mixers | Gin Mixers | Whiskey Mixers | Rum Mixers | Champagne Mixers 

DIY syrups and infusions

Making your own syrups and infusions at home can add a personal touch to your bourbon cocktails. Here are some easy recipes: 

Lavender simple syrup

Ingredients  

• 1 cup water  

• 1 cup granulated sugar  

• 2-3 tablespoons dried lavender flowers (culinary grade)  

Method  

1. Combine water and sugar in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves   
2. Add dried lavender flowers and simmer for 5 minutes.  
3. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool to room temperature.  
4. Strain out the lavender flowers and transfer the syrup to a clean jar or bottle.   

Spiced honey syrup

Ingredients 

• 0.5 cup honey 

• 1 cup water 

• 1 cinnamon stick 

• 3 cloves 

Method 

1. Combine water, honey, and spices in a small saucepan.  
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the honey dissolves. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.  
3. Remove from the heat, strain out the spices with a slotted spoon and let the syrup cool to room temperature.  
4. Transfer the honey syrup to a clean jar or bottle.   

See our comprehensive guide to making simple syrups at home HERE.  

Food pairings with bourbon cocktails

Bourbon cocktails pair wonderfully with a variety of foods. Here are some suggestions: 

Canapés

• Cheese platters: A mix of sharp cheddar, creamy brie, and aged gouda complements the complexity of bourbon. Serve with crackers or crusty bread. 

• Smoked meats: Prosciutto or smoked salmon add a savoury, rich flavour that pairs well with bourbon’s smoky notes. 

• Nuts: Roasted or spiced nuts provide a crunchy, flavourful contrast to bourbon cocktails. 

Main courses

• Grilled steaks: The charred, smoky taste of a well-cooked steak complements bourbon’s rich profile. 

• Smoky lentil and vegetable stew: A hearty vegetable stew, infused with smoked paprika, complements bourbon’s depth and warmth. 

• Barbecue ribs: Sweet and tangy barbecue sauce enhances bourbon’s caramel and vanilla notes. 

• Grilled portobello mushrooms: These meaty mushrooms, marinated and grilled to perfection, provide a robust and earthy flavour that pairs wonderfully with bourbon. 

• Roasted chicken: Seasoned with herbs and spices, roasted chicken pairs well with bourbon for a satisfying meal. 

Desserts

• Pecan pie: The buttery, nutty flavours of pecan pie harmonise with bourbon’s caramel and vanilla undertones. 

• Chocolate brownies: Deep cocoa richness complements bourbon’s bold flavours, creating a decadent pairing. 

• Caramel flan: Creamy texture and caramel sweetness provide a smooth contrast to bourbon’s robust profile. 

A quick history of bourbon

Bourbon whiskey has a rich history intertwined with American culture. Its roots trace back to the late 18th century, when settlers in Kentucky, influenced by their European distilling traditions, began producing whiskey from corn, a readily available grain in the region. The name “bourbon” likely originates from Bourbon County, Kentucky, though its exact naming history remains a little muddled. 

In 1964, the American Congress declared bourbon as a distinct product of the United States, setting specific standards for its production. These include using at least 51% corn in the mash bill, ageing in new charred oak barrels, and distilling to no more than 160 proof (80% alcohol by volume). These regulations ensure consistency and quality across bourbon production. 

It’s clear that bourbon has evolved from a local spirit to a global phenomenon, renowned for its smoothness, caramel sweetness, and complex flavours influenced by ageing in charred oak barrels. Its popularity continues to grow, with enthusiasts and collectors seeking rare and unique expressions from small batch and single barrel distilleries across the bourbon belt. 

Rye vs Bourbon: The Difference Between Rye Whiskey & Bourbon 

An easy bourbon tasting guide for beginners

Tasting bourbon is an art that involves engaging multiple senses to fully appreciate its complexity and nuances.  

• Start by observing the colour, noting variations from pale gold to deep amber, which indicate aging and barrel influences.  

• Swirl the bourbon gently in a glass to release aromas, then bring it to your nose to detect notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spices. 

• When tasting, take a small sip and let it coat your palate, noting its texture and mouthfeel.  

• Identify flavours such as caramel, toffee, cinnamon, and nutmeg, while paying attention to any hints of smokiness or fruitiness.  

• Evaluate the finish—how long flavours linger on your palate and if there are any additional layers of complexity revealed. 

Developing a palate for bourbon typically involves practice and exploration, comparing different brands and expressions to understand personal preferences and appreciate the craftsmanship behind each bottle. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, bourbon offers a diverse range of flavours and experiences for enthusiasts to savour and enjoy. 

There you have it – a comprehensive look at what to mix with bourbon, some food pairing suggestions to elevate your drinks in social situations, and a few deeper insights into the tasty history of bourbon. To stay in the know, sign up for our newsletter, and click here to pick up some Wild Turkey so you can start shaking up amazing bourbon drinks at home.