If you’re craving a winter cocktail that feels merry and bright, this holiday boulevardier cocktail recipe may be exactly what you need. The Boulevardier is a classic stirred drink that dates back to the 1920s, often described as a bourbon or rye twist on the Negroni. The holiday take on this time-honored recipe ups the warmth factor by featuring a whiskey-forward ratio and festive garnishes. The result is a cozy, bittersweet blend that fits right into any Christmas whiskey cocktail lineup.
Traditionally, a Boulevardier calls for equal parts whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Campari. But for a holiday twist, many bartenders prefer a 2:1:1 ratio: two ounces of bourbon or rye, to one ounce each of sweet vermouth and Campari. This small adjustment balances the bitterness while highlighting the smooth, caramel notes of a good whiskey. Think of it as the Negroni’s sweater-wearing cousin—perfect for evenings by the fireplace or a friendly holiday gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1 ounce sweet vermouth (Carpano Antica or Cocchi Vermouth di Torino are popular choices)
- 1 ounce Campari
- Garnish: orange peel (optional), or experiment with lemon or grapefruit peel for different citrus highlights
- Large ice cube (helps control dilution and maintain flavor)
Directions
- Chill a rocks glass in the freezer or by filling it with ice and water for a few minutes.
- In a mixing glass, combine the bourbon or rye, sweet vermouth, and Campari.
- Add fresh ice to the mixing glass and stir gently for 20 to 30 seconds to properly chill and dilute.
- Discard the ice and water from your chilled rocks glass.
- Strain the mixture into the rocks glass over one large ice cube.
- Express an orange peel over the top by twisting it and gently rubbing it along the rim. Drop the peel into the glass for extra aroma, and enjoy.
Tips & Variations
- If you find Campari too intense, try substituting Aperol or St. George Bruto Americano for a less bitter flavor.
- For a slightly sweeter spin, reduce the Campari to 0.75 ounces.
- Using a quality sweet vermouth brings out complex notes to balance the whiskey’s richness. If you can’t find Carpano Antica, Cocchi Vermouth di Torino or Punt e Mes are worth a try.
- Adding a dash or two of chocolate or mole bitters can add a spiced note that really shines in colder weather.
- If you prefer a more spirit-forward taste, stick to the 2:1:1 ratio. If you lean toward a mellower holiday sip, equal parts (1:1:1) create a softer, sweeter profile.
Nutrition Facts
Exact numbers will vary depending on the brands you use. In general, this whiskey-based cocktail can be moderately high in calories and alcohol content. If you want more precise details, check the nutritional information of your specific whiskey, vermouth, and liqueur. Always enjoy responsibly.
Final Thoughts
The Holiday Boulevardier embraces everything that’s comforting about a classic winter cocktail: richness, bittersweet complexity, and a warming feel with each sip. It comes together quickly, so you won’t spend precious entertaining time behind the bar. Whether you’re cozying up with a good movie, hosting friends, or celebrating around a fire, this recipe delivers an easy, sophisticated way to keep your holiday spirits bright.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Can I use different whiskeys?
Absolutely. The Boulevardier works well with either bourbon or rye. Bourbon tends to be sweeter with notes of caramel, while rye offers a bit more spice. -
Do I have to use Campari?
Campari is traditional, but if you find it too bitter, try Aperol or another bitter liqueur. The flavor will be gentler while still capturing most of the Boulevardier’s essence. -
Can I adjust the sweetness level?
Yes. If you want a richer drink, use a bold sweet vermouth. For lighter sweetness, experiment with a lower ratio of vermouth or try variations like Punt e Mes, which has a slightly more bitter edge. -
How should I serve it for holiday parties?
Serve it in a chilled rocks glass over one large ice cube. You can pre-batch the cocktail in a pitcher, then stir with ice just before serving. Add a festive garnish like an orange twist or fresh cranberries on a skewer for holiday flair. -
Is shaking ever an option?
This drink is almost always stirred because it preserves clarity and texture. Shaking introduces air and extra dilution. If you enjoy a frothier mouthfeel, you can try it, but the classic approach is to stir.
