The Boulevardier, a whiskey-based cocktail that’s been charming bartenders and drinkers alike since the 1930s. With its rich flavor profile, complex notes of spices, and velvety smooth texture, it’s no wonder this classic cocktail has stood the test of time. But what happens when you take a timeless recipe and give it a little extra oomph? In this article, we’ll be exploring 17 different Boulevardier recipes that put a twist on the classic formula. From smoky barrel-aging to infused flavors and unique twists, these innovative takes will keep your taste buds guessing. So grab your shaker, get creative, and join us as we shake up the classics with these 17 Boulevardier recipes with a twist!
Smoky Barrel-Aged Boulevardier
Elevate your cocktail game with this complex and smoky twist on the classic Boulevardier.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 oz Aperol
– 1 oz sweet vermouth
– 1/2 oz Barolo Chinato
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– 1 dash smoked sea salt
– Ice
– Orange twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add bourbon, Aperol, sweet vermouth, and Barolo Chinato.
3. Add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters.
4. Sprinkle 1 dash of smoked sea salt over the mixture.
5. Stir for approximately 20-25 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
6. Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with ice.
7. Garnish with an orange twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply stir, strain, and enjoy.
Boulevardier with Orange Bitters
Elevate your cocktail game with this modern twist on the classic Boulevardier, featuring the bright and citrusy notes of orange bitters. Perfect for whiskey lovers looking to mix things up!
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1 oz Aperol
– 1/2 oz Sweet Vermouth
– 3 dashes Orange Bitters
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add whiskey, Aperol, and sweet vermouth.
3. Add 3 dashes of orange bitters.
4. Stir for approximately 30-45 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in under 2 minutes.
Spiced Maple Boulevardier
Elevate your cocktail game with this autumnal twist on the classic Boulevardier. Warm spices and rich maple syrup add depth to the whiskey-based drink, perfect for sipping on a chilly fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1/2 oz Aperol
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– 1/4 oz maple syrup
– 2 dashes of cinnamon bitters
– Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add whiskey, Aperol, sweet vermouth, and maple syrup.
3. Add 2 dashes of cinnamon bitters.
4. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and combine ingredients.
5. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with an orange peel, twisted to release its oils.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)
Bourbon-Infused Cherry Boulevardier
Elevate your cocktail game with this rich and complex Bourbon-Infused Cherry Boulevardier, combining the smoothness of bourbon with the tartness of cherry liqueur.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Bourbon Whiskey
– 1/2 oz Cherry Liqueur (such as Cherry Heering)
– 1/2 oz Sweet Vermouth
– 1 dash Angostura Bitters
– Cherry, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine Bourbon, Cherry Liqueur, and Sweet Vermouth.
2. Add a dash of Angostura Bitters.
3. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass.
5. Garnish with a cherry, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This is a cocktail recipe, not a cooking recipe.
Rosemary-Infused Boulevardier
The Boulevardier is a classic cocktail that gets a fragrant boost from the addition of rosemary-infused simple syrup. This unique twist combines the warmth of whiskey and bitters with the piney freshness of rosemary, perfect for sipping on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1 oz Rosemary-Infused Simple Syrup (see below)
– 1/2 oz Sweet Vermouth
– 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
– Ice
– Fresh rosemary sprig, for garnish
Rosemary-Infused Simple Syrup:
– 1 cup Water
– 1 cup Granulated Sugar
– 1/4 cup Fresh Rosemary Leaves
Combine water and sugar in a saucepan, heating until the sugar dissolves. Add fresh rosemary leaves and remove from heat. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add whiskey, rosemary-infused simple syrup, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
3. Stir gently for approximately 30 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.
5. Garnish with a fresh rosemary sprig.
Cooking Time: None
Boulevardier with a Coffee Liqueur Float
The Boulevardier is a classic cocktail that gets a modern twist by adding a float of coffee liqueur. This rich and bold drink is perfect for those who love whiskey and coffee.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1 oz Aperol
– 1 oz sweet vermouth
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– Coffee liqueur, for floating
– Whiskey ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with whiskey ice cubes.
2. Add the whiskey, Aperol, sweet vermouth, and bitters to the mixing glass.
3. Stir the mixture for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with whiskey ice cubes.
5. Float a small amount of coffee liqueur on top of the cocktail by slowly pouring it over the back of a spoon.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just assemble and serve.
Black Pepper and Citrus Boulevardier
A twist on the classic Boulevardier cocktail, this recipe adds a bold black pepper element and a splash of citrus to create a unique and refreshing drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1 oz Aperol
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 2 dashes black pepper tincture
– Juice of 1 orange, to taste
– Orange twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add whiskey, Aperol, and simple syrup.
3. Add 2 dashes of black pepper tincture.
4. Stir briefly to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
6. Squeeze in the juice of 1 orange, to taste.
7. Garnish with an orange twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None! Just shake, stir, and serve.
Honey-Lavender Boulevardier
The Honey-Lavender Boulevardier is a sophisticated take on the classic Boulevardier cocktail, featuring the floral notes of lavender and the sweetness of honey. This unique combination will delight your taste buds and impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 oz Aperol
– 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water)
– 1/4 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/4 oz lavender syrup (see note)
– Dash of club soda
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add bourbon, Aperol, honey syrup, lime juice, and lavender syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a dash of club soda.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Note: To make lavender syrup, combine 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup water, and 1/4 cup dried lavender buds in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Strain the mixture and let it cool before using.
Espresso Boulevardier with Dark Chocolate Shavings
Elevate your coffee game with this decadent and rich drink, featuring the bold flavors of espresso, whiskey, and dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of strong espresso (about 1 oz)
– 3/4 oz bourbon or whiskey
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– 1/2 oz coffee liqueur
– Dark chocolate shavings for garnish
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour the espresso, bourbon, sweet vermouth, and coffee liqueur over the ice.
3. Stir gently for about 30 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with dark chocolate shavings.
Cooking Time: None! This drink is ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy your Espresso Boulevardier with Dark Chocolate Shavings, a sophisticated and indulgent treat for any time of day.
Blonde Boulevardier with Sweet Vermouth Reduction
The Blonde Boulevardier is a twist on the classic Boulevardier, substituting whiskey for bourbon and adding a sweet vermouth reduction for added depth. This unique combination creates a smooth, complex cocktail perfect for sipping on a warm evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz blonde whiskey
– 1 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz Aperol
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth reduction (see below)
– Orange twist, for garnish
Sweet Vermouth Reduction:
– 1 cup sweet vermouth
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a saucepan, combine sweet vermouth, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until reduced by half.
3. Strain reduction into a clean glass bottle and let cool.
4. In a mixing glass, combine whiskey, bourbon, Aperol, and sweet vermouth reduction. Fill with ice and stir for 20-25 seconds.
5. Strain cocktail into a chilled coupe or rocks glass. Garnish with an orange twist.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes reduction time)
Winter-Spiced Boulevardier with Cinnamon
As the winter months approach, warm up with this spicy twist on the classic Boulevardier cocktail. This recipe combines the richness of whiskey, the bitterness of Aperol, and the warmth of cinnamon to create a cozy drink perfect for cold nights.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1/2 oz Aperol
– 1/2 oz Sweet Vermouth
– 1/4 oz Cinnamon Syrup (see below)
– Orange peel, for garnish
Cinnamon Syrup:
– 1 cup Water
– 1 cup Granulated Sugar
– 2 cinnamon sticks
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine water and sugar. Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add cinnamon sticks to the syrup and remove from heat. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Strain the syrup into a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
4. Add whiskey, Aperol, and sweet vermouth. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass. Garnish with an orange peel.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (for cinnamon syrup)
Boulevardier Sour with Egg White Foam
A twist on the classic Boulevardier cocktail, this recipe adds a silky egg white foam and a splash of citrus for added depth.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 oz Campari
– 1 oz sweet vermouth
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1 large egg white
– Ice
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, Campari, sweet vermouth, and lemon juice.
2. Add simple syrup and fill the shaker with ice.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk egg white until frothy.
6. Slowly pour the egg white foam over the cocktail, allowing it to flow gently down the sides of the glass.
Cooking Time:
– None! This is a cocktail recipe.
Smoked Cherry Wood Boulevardier
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique Smoked Cherry Wood Boulevardier, featuring the rich flavors of smoked cherry wood and whiskey.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Bourbon Whiskey (smoked cherry wood-infused)
– 1 oz Aperol
– 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
– 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
– Cherry garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the bourbon whiskey, Aperol, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
3. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a cherry and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required. Simply prepare and serve.
Vanilla Bean-Infused Boulevardier
This unique twist on the classic Boulevardier combines the smoothness of whiskey and vermouth with the subtle warmth of vanilla. Perfect for sipping on a chilly evening, this cocktail is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
– 1 oz sweet vermouth
– 1/2 oz Aperol
– 1/2 oz vanilla-flavored simple syrup (see below)
– Orange peel, for garnish
Vanilla Bean-Infused Simple Syrup:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. Combine water and sugar in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
2. Add vanilla bean to the syrup and remove from heat. Let steep for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Strain simple syrup into a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
4. Add bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Aperol to the shaker.
5. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.
6. Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
7. Express a strip of orange peel over the drink and use as garnish.
Cooking Time: None
Boulevardier with a Hint of Cardamom
Elevate the classic Boulevardier cocktail by adding a unique twist of cardamom, creating a complex and intriguing flavor profile. This aromatic twist will transport you to the charming streets of Paris.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 oz Aperol
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– 3 dashes Angostura bitters
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add bourbon, Aperol, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
3. Add the ground cardamom and shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with an orange peel, curled into a twist.
Cooking Time: None! This is a quick and easy cocktail to prepare.
Boulevardier on the Rocks with a Citrus Twist
Elevate the classic Boulevardier cocktail by adding a tangy twist of citrus. This refreshing drink is perfect for warm weather or anytime you want to add some zing to your evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1 oz sweet vermouth
– 1/2 oz Campari
– Juice of 1 orange
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Ice
– Orange twist and lemon wheel for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a rocks glass with ice.
2. Add the bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari.
3. Squeeze in the juice of one orange and one lemon.
4. Stir gently to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Garnish with an orange twist and a lemon wheel.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready to serve)
Herbal Boulevardier with Fernet-Branca Rinse
Elevate your classic Boulevardier cocktail with a hint of herbal complexity and a sophisticated finishing touch.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
– 1/2 oz Aperol
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– 3 dashes of Angostura bitters
– Fernet-Branca Rinse (recipe below)
– Orange twist, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add bourbon or rye whiskey, Aperol, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters.
3. Stir for 30-45 seconds to chill and dilute the mixture.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with one large ice cube.
Fernet-Branca Rinse:
– Fill a small bowl with Fernet-Branca.
– Dip an orange twist into the Fernet-Branca, coating both sides evenly.
– Place the twisted orange slice on top of the cocktail.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cocktail game with these 17 unique and creative Boulevardier recipes. This classic drink typically consists of whiskey, vermouth, and bitters, but our experts have taken it to the next level by adding twists like smoky flavors, citrus notes, and even coffee liqueur. From Spiced Maple Boulevardier to Rosemary-Infused Boulevardier, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just looking to spice up your cocktail hour, these recipes are sure to impress.
