Bourbon Rickey

The Bourbon Rickey is a southern twist on the classic Gin Rickey. This cocktail contains bourbon, fresh lime juice, and soda water.

The Rickey is a family of cocktails that have their origins in the United States, with the Gin Rickey being the most well-known member. However, the Bourbon Rickey is a flavorful variation that deserves its own moment in the spotlight.

The beauty of this cocktail lies in its simplicity, as it consists of just a few key ingredients that perfectly complement one another.

Bourbon serves as the heart and soul of the Bourbon Rickey. It’s a type of American whiskey known for its rich and robust flavor profile. Bourbon is typically made from at least 51% corn, with the remainder consisting of grains like barley, rye, or wheat. This grain mash gives bourbon its distinctive sweetness and depth.

The bourbon in a Bourbon Rickey contributes caramel and vanilla notes, often accompanied by a touch of oak from the aging process. These flavors provide a warm and comforting foundation for the cocktail.

Fresh lime juice is the primary source of acidity and brightness in this recipe. The tartness of the lime juice counterbalances the sweetness and depth of the bourbon, creating contrast.

Club soda, sparkling water, or soda water, plays a crucial role in the Bourbon Rickey. It adds effervescence and refreshing quality to the cocktail, making it ideal for warm weather or as a thirst quencher.

The carbonation from the soda water also lightens the drink and enhances its overall drinkability. It helps mellow the strength of the bourbon, making the cocktail more accessible to a wider audience.

Bourbon Rickey Recipe

1. 45 ml bourbon

2. 30 ml fresh lime juice

3. Soda water, to top

4. Ice

5. Garnish: lime wedge