Boulevardier, a Fantastic Bourbon, Campari Cocktail

A Boulevardier is a classic cocktail similar to a Negroni but made with whiskey instead of gin. It’s a slightly sweet and delightful blend of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Campari, typically garnished with a twist of orange peel.

There are two popular approaches to crafting this cocktail, each with merits. One method involves using equal parts of the ingredients, creating a harmonious balance.

Alternatively, some prefer a variation where the bourbon takes a slightly more robust presence, adding an intriguing twist.

Both methods result in delicious cocktail versions, offering unique experiences and recipes worth exploring.

Boulevardier Recipe

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Recipe by Carl Busch Course: BeverageCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

1

servings

Prep time

2

minutes

Cooking time

1

minute

A nice riff of a Negroni using bourbon instead of gin.

Ingredients

• 1.25 oz 1.25 Bourbon

• .75 oz .75 Campari

• .75 oz .75 Sweet Vermouth

Directions

• Combine all ingredients into a mixing glass.

  • 

• Add ice.

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• Stir for 30 seconds.

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• Strain over a large ice cube in double rocks glass.

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• Garnish with an orange twist.

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What is the History of the Boulevardier?

The history of the Boulevardier cocktail dates back to the 1920s during the era of Prohibition. It was created by an American writer and socialite named Erskine Gwynne.

Gwynne was the editor-in-chief of a monthly magazine called “The Boulevardier,” published in Paris. The magazine covered topics such as literature, arts, and Parisian culture.

While living in Paris, Gwynne developed a taste for the Negroni cocktail, which was popular among the expatriate community. However, he found that gin wasn’t his preferred spirit.

Gwynne experimented and substituted whiskey for gin, creating a variation that would suit his palate. This new concoction became known as the Boulevardier cocktail, named after his magazine.

When Did the Boulevardier Become Popular?

The Boulevardier cocktail gained popularity among Paris’s literary and artistic circles at the time. It offered a more prosperous and warmer alternative to the Negroni, thanks to the whiskey’s depth of flavor.

The drink eventually returned to the United States and became a staple in cocktail bars and speakeasies.

Today, the Boulevardier continues to be enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts worldwide. Its unique combination of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Campari creates a bittersweet and well-balanced taste profile that appeals to both whiskey and cocktail lovers alike.

What is the Best Bourbon for a Boulevardier recipe?

Choosing the best bourbon for a Boulevardier can depend on personal preference, as different bourbons can bring various flavors and characteristics to the cocktail.

However, there are a few recommendations that are often cited by mixologists. Here are a few whiskey options to consider:

1. Bulleit Bourbon

   Bulleit is a popular choice for a Boulevardier due to its high-rye content. The spicy and robust flavors of Bulleit complement the bitter and sweet elements of the cocktail.

2. Four Roses Single Barrel

   Four Roses Single Barrel is known for its smoothness and complexity. It offers a rich and full-bodied flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients in a Boulevardier.

3. Woodford Reserve

   Woodford Reserve is a well-rounded bourbon with vanilla, caramel, and toasted oak notes. Its balanced flavor profile lends itself nicely to the Boulevardier, enhancing the overall harmony of the cocktail.

4. Maker’s Mark

   Maker’s Mark is a wheated bourbon that brings a slightly sweeter profile to the Boulevardier. Its smooth and mellow character can provide a pleasant contrast to the bitter notes of Campari.

Remember, these suggestions are just starting points, and you can explore other bourbons to find the one that suits your taste preferences.

Ultimately, the best bourbon for a Boulevardier is the one you enjoy the most when combined with the other ingredients in the cocktail.

Carl Busch( Content Creator )

Loves metal music and singing in the shower.