If you love sipping on whiskey drinks, the Kentucky Colonel Cocktail might just become your new favorite. This classic beverage combines bourbon’s smooth warmth with herbal notes that add depth without overpowering the whiskey’s natural charm. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make it at home, with just a handful of simple ingredients.
What is it?
Picture a finely balanced bourbon cocktail that’s lightly sweet with a subtle herbal kick. The Kentucky Colonel Cocktail is typically made with bourbon, Benedictine (a liqueur bursting with botanical flavors), and a dash of aromatic bitters. It’s often served in an elegant coupe or rocks glass. Each sip offers a comforting warmth with a slightly sweet finish, making it a go-to for cozy nights in or small gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces of bourbon (your favorite brand)
- 0.5 ounce of Benedictine liqueur
- 2 dashes of aromatic bitters
- Ice cubes (for shaking or stirring)
- Optional garnish: lemon twist or cherry
Directions
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Chill your glass
Fill your serving glass with ice water, then set it aside. A cold glass helps keep your drink nice and cool. -
Combine the ingredients
In a cocktail shaker (or mixing glass), add bourbon, Benedictine, and bitters. Fill it halfway with fresh ice. -
Shake or stir
Give it a good shake for about 15 seconds if you prefer a slightly frothy texture, or stir gently for 20 seconds if you like a smoother finish. -
Strain and serve
Discard the ice water from your chilled glass. Strain the cocktail into the glass, and garnish with a lemon twist or cherry if you’d like a pop of color.
Nutrition facts
While exact numbers depend on the bourbon and Benedictine you use, a single serving generally ranges from 150 to 200 calories. Most of that comes from the alcohol content, so keep that in mind if you’re watching your daily intake.
Final thoughts
Crafting a Kentucky Colonel Cocktail at home is incredibly straightforward, and it lets you appreciate bourbon in a slightly different light. Whether you’re hosting a relaxed get-together or treating yourself to a quiet evening, this cocktail can strike just the right note of flavor and style. Feel free to experiment with your favorite bourbon brands and garnishes to create a version that suits your taste.
Frequently asked questions (faqs)
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Can I substitute Benedictine?
If you can’t find Benedictine, consider using another herbal liqueur like Chartreuse or Drambuie. The flavor will change slightly, but it’ll still have a pleasant botanical twist. -
What kind of glass should I use?
A coupe or rocks glass works nicely. Whichever style you choose, pre-chill it so your drink stays cold for longer. -
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Absolutely. If you want a dryer taste, reduce the Benedictine. If you’d like it sweeter, try adding a touch more or introduce a small drizzle of simple syrup. -
Do I need bitters?
Bitters really help tie the flavors together. If you skip them, you might miss that subtle complexity, but the cocktail can still taste fine in a pinch.
Enjoy your new go-to whiskey treat, and don’t forget to savor each sip. Cheers!
