The Boulevardier: a timeless cocktail that never fails to impress. With its rich, complex flavor profile and smooth texture, it’s no wonder this drink has remained a staple among cocktail enthusiasts for generations. But what makes a Boulevardier truly great? For us, it’s all about the subtle nuances of balance and harmony in each sip. Whether you’re looking to elevate your home bar game or simply want to impress your friends with an old-school classic, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be counting down our top 18 Boulevardier recipes that will take your cocktail game to new heights. From the original recipe to innovative twists and variations, we’ll explore the world of Boulevardiers and showcase the versatility of this beloved drink. So grab a glass, get ready to shake (or stir) things up, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of Boulevardiers!
Classic Boulevardier with Bourbon and Campari
This timeless cocktail combines the smoothness of bourbon with the bitter sweetness of Campari, creating a perfectly balanced drink that’s sure to impress. With its rich flavors and elegant appearance, it’s no wonder this classic cocktail remains a favorite among mixologists.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon
– 1 oz (30 ml) Campari
– 1/2 oz (15 ml) sweet vermouth
– Orange twist or slice, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Pour the bourbon, Campari, and sweet vermouth over the ice.
3. Stir gently for about 30 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.
4. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with an orange twist or slice.
Cooking Time: None required! This cocktail is ready to drink as soon as you’re done mixing and serving.
Smoky Boulevardier with Mezcal
This twist on the classic Boulevardier cocktail adds a smoky depth of flavor with Mezcal and a hint of spice from cinnamon. Perfect for those who enjoy complex, nuanced cocktails.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Mezcal
– 1 oz Aperol
– 1 oz sweet vermouth
– 1/2 oz cinnamon syrup (see note)
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add Mezcal, Aperol, sweet vermouth, and cinnamon syrup.
3. Add bitters and stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass.
5. Express a thin strip of orange peel over the drink and use as garnish.
Cooking Time: None, just shake and serve!
Spiced Boulevardier with Cinnamon Infused Sweet Vermouth
Elevate the classic Boulevardier by infusing sweet vermouth with cinnamon and adding warm spices to create a unique and aromatic cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Bourbon or Whiskey
– 1 oz Cinnamon infused sweet vermouth (see note)
– 1/2 oz Aperol
– 1/4 oz Cynar
– 3 dashes of Angostura bitters
– Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a mixing glass, combine bourbon or whiskey, cinnamon infused sweet vermouth, Aperol, and Cynar.
2. Add ice to the mixing glass and stir for approximately 20-30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass.
4. Add three dashes of Angostura bitters on top of the cocktail.
5. Garnish with an orange peel, twisted to release its oils.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Rye Boulevardier with a Twist of Orange
This modern twist on the classic Boulevardier cocktail adds a burst of citrus flavor from freshly squeezed orange juice, perfectly balancing the bold flavors of rye whiskey and Aperol.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Rye Whiskey
– 1 oz Aperol
– 1 oz Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice
– 1/2 oz Sweet Vermouth
– Orange twist or slice for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the rye whiskey, Aperol, and orange juice.
3. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to combine and chill.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Add the sweet vermouth and stir gently to combine.
6. Express an orange twist over the drink and use as garnish.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold-temperature preparation.
Winter Boulevardier with Maple Syrup
A twist on the classic Boulevardier cocktail, this winter variation adds a touch of maple syrup to warm up your spirits.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1 oz Aperol
– 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
– 1/2 oz Maple Syrup
– Orange peel (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add whiskey, Aperol, sweet vermouth, and maple syrup.
3. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Express a thin strip of orange peel over the drink, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This is a drink recipe.
Herbal Boulevardier with Rosemary Infused Bourbon
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique twist on the classic Boulevardier. The addition of rosemary-infused bourbon adds a fragrant and herbaceous note to this bold drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Rosemary-Infused Bourbon
– 1 oz Aperol
– 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
– 2 dashes Orange Bitters
– Orange twist, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the rosemary-infused bourbon, Aperol, and sweet vermouth.
3. Add two dashes of orange bitters.
4. Stir for approximately 20-25 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with one large ice cube.
6. Express a thin strip of orange peel over the drink and use as garnish.
Cooking Time: None
Citrus Boulevardier with Grapefruit Bitters
This refreshing cocktail combines the bold flavors of whiskey, citrus, and bitters to create a unique and invigorating drink. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– 2 dashes Grapefruit Bitters
– Orange twist, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the whiskey, grapefruit juice, and sweet vermouth.
3. Add 2 dashes of Grapefruit Bitters.
4. Stir for approximately 20-25 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Garnish with an orange twist.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)
Smoked Boulevardier with Hickory Smoke
Elevate your cocktail game with this smoky take on the Boulevardier, featuring rich hickory notes and a bold whiskey flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1 oz sweet vermouth
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– 1/4 cup hickory-smoked simple syrup (see below for recipe)
– Ice
– Orange twist, for garnish
Hickory-Smoked Simple Syrup:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp hickory wood chips or chunks
Instructions:
1. Combine whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters in a mixing glass.
2. Add the hickory-smoked simple syrup and fill with ice.
3. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and combine ingredients.
4. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with an orange twist.
Cooking Time:
– None required; simply prepare and serve!
Boulevardier Sour with Egg White Foam
A twist on the classic Boulevardier cocktail, this recipe adds a silky egg white foam and a squeeze of citrus to create a unique and refreshing drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1 oz sweet vermouth
– 1/2 oz Campari
– 3 dashes orange bitters
– 1 large egg white
– Simple syrup (optional)
– Orange twist, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, sweet vermouth, Campari, and orange bitters.
2. Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together egg white until frothy.
5. Slowly pour the egg white mixture over the back of a spoon onto the cocktail, allowing it to form a silky foam on top.
6. Garnish with an orange twist and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None
Vanilla Boulevardier with Vanilla Bean Infused Sweet Vermouth
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique twist on the classic Boulevardier, featuring vanilla bean infused sweet vermouth and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1 oz Aperol
– 1/2 oz vanilla bean infused sweet vermouth (see notes)
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the bourbon, Aperol, and vanilla bean infused sweet vermouth.
3. Add two dashes of Angostura bitters.
4. Stir gently for approximately 30-45 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
5. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
6. Express a thin strip of orange peel over the drink, then use as garnish.
Notes: To make vanilla bean infused sweet vermouth, combine 1 cup of sweet vermouth with 1/4 cup of water and 1/2 vanilla bean (split lengthwise) in a jar. Steep for at least 2 hours or overnight. Strain the mixture before using.
Boulevardier Old Fashioned with a Dash of Angostura Bitters
A classic twist on the timeless Old Fashioned, this recipe combines the rich flavors of bourbon and sweet vermouth with a hint of spice from Angostura bitters.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– 3 dashes Angostura bitters
– Orange peel (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the bourbon and sweet vermouth.
3. Add 3 dashes of Angostura bitters.
4. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with one large ice cube.
6. Express a strip of orange peel over the drink, if desired, and use as garnish.
Cooking Time: N/A (no cooking required)
Chocolate Boulevardier with Dark Cacao Nibs
Experience the rich flavors of a classic Boulevardier, elevated by the addition of dark cacao nibs. This unique twist on the whiskey-based cocktail combines the bitterness of Campari and sweet notes of chocolate for a complex and indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1 oz Campari
– 1/2 oz Dark Cacao Nibs-infused simple syrup (see note)
– 1/2 oz Freshly squeezed orange juice
– Ice
– Orange twist, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the whiskey, Campari, and cacao nibs simple syrup.
3. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and combine ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Top with orange juice and garnish with an orange twist.
Note: To make cacao nibs-infused simple syrup, combine 1 cup water with 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon dark cacao nibs in a saucepan. Heat until the sugar dissolves, then let cool and steep for at least 30 minutes before straining and using.
Spicy Boulevardier with Jalapeño Infused Bourbon
Elevate your cocktail game with this spicy twist on the classic Boulevardier, featuring jalapeño infused bourbon. This bold and smoky drink is perfect for those who like a little heat in their spirits.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz jalapeño infused bourbon
– 1 oz Aperol
– 1 oz sweet vermouth
– 3 dashes Angostura bitters
– Orange twist, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the jalapeño infused bourbon, Aperol, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters.
3. Stir for approximately 30 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients.
4. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Express an orange twist over the drink and use as garnish.
Cooking Time: None required! This is a cocktail recipe.
Boulevardier Martini with a Dry Vermouth Twist
A modern twist on the classic Boulevardier, this cocktail combines whiskey, Aperol, and dry vermouth for a sophisticated and complex flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1/2 oz Aperol
– 1/2 oz Dry Vermouth
– Orange twist or slice, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the whiskey, Aperol, and dry vermouth to the mixing glass.
3. Stir gently for about 30 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with an orange twist or slice.
Cooking Time: None, this is a cocktail!
Enjoy your Boulevardier Martini with a Dry Vermouth Twist!
Boulevardier Negroni Hybrid with Gin
This recipe combines the bold flavors of a Boulevardier and a Negroni, adding a touch of gin for added depth. The result is a complex, yet approachable cocktail perfect for warm evenings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz gin
– 1/2 oz Campari
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
– Orange twist or slice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Pour the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth over the ice.
3. Add the Angostura bitters.
4. Stir for approximately 30-45 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with an orange twist or slice, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Boulevardier Punch for Large Gatherings
Perfect for large gatherings and special occasions, this classic cocktail punch is a refreshing twist on the Old Fashioned. Made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, Boulevardier Punch is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups bourbon or rye whiskey
– 1 cup sweet vermouth
– 1/4 cup Aperol or other bitter liqueur
– 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/2 cup lemon-lime soda
– Slices of orange, lemon, and lime for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Aperol.
2. Stir until well combined.
3. Add freshly squeezed orange juice and stir gently to combine.
4. Chill punch in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Just before serving, add lemon-lime soda and stir gently.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with slices of orange, lemon, and lime.
Cooking Time: None!
Boulevardier Slushie for Summer Refreshment
Beat the heat with this refreshing twist on the classic Boulevardier cocktail, perfect for warm summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 oz Campari
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– 1 cup mixed berry juice (such as blueberry, raspberry, and blackberry)
– 1 cup crushed ice
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine bourbon, Campari, sweet vermouth, and mixed berry juice.
2. Add crushed ice to the blender and blend until smooth and slushy.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or flavor as needed.
4. Pour into glasses filled with ice and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and serve.
Enjoy your Boulevardier Slushie, a refreshing summer treat that’s perfect for hot days or outdoor gatherings.
Boulevardier Float with a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique and refreshing twist on the classic Whiskey Sour. The Boulevardier float combines rich whiskey flavors with sweet vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful contrast of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
– 1/2 oz Aperol
– 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
– 1/2 cup lemon-lime soda
– 1 scoop vanilla ice cream
– Lemon twist or wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add whiskey, Aperol, and sweet vermouth.
3. Shake gently to combine and chill the ingredients (about 10-15 seconds).
4. Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
5. Top with lemon-lime soda.
6. Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream in the glass.
7. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel.
Cooking Time: None! Enjoy your Boulevardier float immediately.
Summary
Get ready to elevate your cocktail game with 18 classic Boulevardier recipes! From the original Bourbon and Campari combination to innovative twists like Smoky, Spiced, and Herbal variations, there’s something for every taste. Whether you’re in the mood for a Winter Wonderland-inspired drink or a refreshing Citrus Bouquet, these recipes will take you on a journey of flavors. From classics with an egg white foam to sweet treats with vanilla bean-infused sweet vermouth, this collection has it all. So go ahead, mix and mingle with these Boulevardier masterpieces!
I’m Brandon, the face behind the recipes. As a dedicated food enthusiast, I love experimenting with flavors and sharing my culinary adventures with you.
