Recipe
- Fill a mixing glass with ice cubes.
- Pour bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari over the ice.
- Stir well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Optionally, add orange bitters or cherry liqueur.
- Garnish with a twist of orange peel.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy the Boulevardier as an aperitif before dinner, allowing the robust flavors to stimulate the palate.
Explore: Boulevardier Variations
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz (45 ml) bourbon
- 1 oz (30 ml) sweet vermouth
- 1 oz (30 ml) Campari
- Ice cubes
- Orange peel for garnish
Optional Enhancements: A dash of orange bitters for added citrus complexity, a small splash of cherry liqueur for a hint of sweetness, or a smoky bourbon to intensify the depth of flavor.
Bartending Tips
Creating the ultimate Boulevardier Cocktail is more than just following the recipe. Here are some expert mixology tips:
Mixing Technique
Quality Spirits: For the best flavor balance, use a high-quality bourbon or rye, sweet vermouth, and Campari.
Proper Proportions: The classic ratio is 1:1:1, but you can adjust to taste (e.g., 1.5 parts bourbon to 1 part vermouth and Campari).
Stirred, Not Shaken: Stir the ingredients with ice until well-chilled to maintain a smooth texture.
Garnishing and Presentation
Orange Twist: Garnish with a twist of orange peel to add a hint of citrus aroma.
Large Ice Cube: Serve with a large ice cube to keep the drink chilled without diluting it too quickly.
Rocks Glass: Serve in a rocks glass for a classic presentation.
How to Store
Pre-Mix Ingredients: If preparing in advance, mix the bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari and store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stir with ice just before serving to ensure the freshest taste.
Faq
What type of whiskey is best for a Boulevardier?
Both bourbon and rye whiskey work well in a Boulevardier. Bourbon provides a sweeter, smoother flavor, while rye offers a spicier, more robust profile.
What is the origin of the Boulevardier cocktail?
The Boulevardier was created in the 1920s by American expatriate Erskine Gwynne in Paris. It was named after his monthly magazine, “Boulevardier,” and became a classic pre-Prohibition era cocktail.
How should a Boulevardier be served?
A Boulevardier is typically served over ice in a rocks glass. It can also be served straight up in a chilled coupe or cocktail glass. Garnish with an orange twist or a cherry.
Can I use different types of vermouth for a Boulevardier?
While sweet vermouth is traditional, you can experiment with different brands or styles of sweet vermouth to find the flavor profile you prefer.
What are some variations of the Boulevardier cocktail?
Variations include adjusting the ratio of whiskey, vermouth, and Campari to taste, using different types of whiskey, or adding a dash of bitters for extra complexity.
Is the Boulevardier a strong cocktail?
Yes, the Boulevardier is a strong cocktail due to the high alcohol content of both the whiskey and Campari. The sweet vermouth adds a balancing sweetness.
Can a Boulevardier be made non-alcoholic?
Creating a non-alcoholic version of the Boulevardier is challenging due to its reliance on alcoholic ingredients. However, you can use non-alcoholic whiskey alternatives and a non-alcoholic bitter aperitif, along with a non-alcoholic vermouth.
What is the best garnish for a Boulevardier?
The traditional garnish for a Boulevardier is an orange twist, which adds a citrusy aroma and flavor. A cherry can also be used for a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
What foods pair well with a Boulevardier cocktail?
Boulevardier cocktails pair well with rich, savory foods such as charcuterie, roasted meats, strong cheeses, and dark chocolate. The robust flavors of the cocktail complement these hearty dishes perfectly.
