Top 10 Whiskies to Make the Best Boulevardier
As the weather gets cooler, our cocktails get warmer.
The Boulevardier is just one of those beverages; the mix of bourbon whiskey, Campari, and vermouth does just the trick when temperatures are chilly to the bone. Whether you’re a Negroni aficionado or whiskey lover, we are giving you the low down on the top ten whiskeys that will slip seamlessly into the classic Boulevardier recipe.
The Classics – The bourbons that will never let you down.
Woodford Reserve
A real go-to, whether at the bar or at home, is Woodford Reserve. This Kentucky Straight Bourbon whiskey has all the flavors you want: honey, vanilla, toffee, and spice. Its slightly lighter body allows it to mingle effortlessly with the other ingredients without stealing center stage, giving your Boulevardier some finesse at an excellent price point.
Old Forester 1870 Original Batch Bourbon
The indomitable character of Old Forester ‘never gets old’ as their slogan goes. But, when you want to switch up your usual bourbon in your Boulevardier, the 1870 Original Batch is waiting for you. It’s a more citrus-forward bourbon, easily complimenting Campari’s bitter orange nature. Its velvety body only adds more enjoyment, leaving a mild but present kick of spice with every sip.
FEW Bourbon
This newcomer to the bourbon community stands out with its unorthodox origins. Made right outside Chicago, it’s not your usual bourbon. However, that doesn’t make it any less great. The recipe carries all the classic traditions of Kentucky Bourbon, with grain from a different, much chillier terroir. The result? An exciting, extra spice-driven rye that adds a much-needed winter twist to your Boulevardier.
Four Roses Single Barrel
Another bourbon staple, Four Roses rarely fails at making a Boulevardier delicious. Their single-barrel bourbon brings elegance to your cocktail without losing any strength. Its fruity and mocha character will love up to the Campari and sweet vermouth, while its high proof will provide the warmth you need to make this signature fall/winter drink.
The Ryes – For those who like a Boulevardier that has a little more sugar, spice, and everything nice.
Rittenhouse
One of the most reliable ryes around, Rittenhouse steps in with the classic rye character and 100 proof you need to concoct the best ‘cozy by the fireplace’ Boulevardier. It’s spicy and toasty, with undertones of candied citrus that play nicely with the strong character of Campari.
Knob Creek Rye
This 100-proof rye is a go-to guy. It’s a full-flavored, rounded rye that is just as soft and sweet as it is spicy, lending a nice balance to your Boulevardier. But, if you’re looking to change up your usual recipe, try Knob Creek Smoked Maple Rye, adding a kick of hickory you didn’t know you needed.
The Beverly High Rye
Looking to elevate your Boulevardier? The small batch barrel-strength rye comes in strong, literally. At 116 proof, this expertly crafted whiskey shines with its meticulous blending, yielding a rye that’s as delectable as the butteriest holiday dessert. Its sweet spice and nuttiness bring the mountain chalet, ‘chestnuts roasting on an open fire’ vibes straight to your bar.
The Other Guys – A mix of other, out-of-the-box whiskies to shake up your Boulevardier recipe.
Monkey Shoulder Scotch Whisky
The malt flavors of this Scotch whiskey were born for mixing. It slips in sneakily to bolder drinks like a Boulevardier, without disjointing the other intense ingredients. When mixed just right, Monkey Shoulder’s warm vanilla honey flavors add a sweet touch to your Boulevardier recipe.
Redbreast Tawny Port Cask Edition
We aren’t sure if you’re ready for an Irish Boulevardier. With Redbreast’s latest Tawny Pork Cask Edition release, you’re in for a new sultry winter cocktail. This whiskey’s charming buttery, almost salted caramel flavors may seem a little daring, yet, they do magic in a Boulevardier, creating a cocktail you want to sip when those temperatures really dip.
Great Jones Straight Rye
For those looking for something really new to try, Great Jones lends a cosmopolitan air to your Boulevardier. This may be a bourbon, but it was born in the Big Apple, made with 100% New York State-grown grains. Its velvety vanilla flavors are complimented by an exciting balance of white and black pepper, all of which turn your Boulevardier into an exciting dance of the senses.
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