Get the perfect balance of bold and refreshing with this Bourbon and Branch drink recipe. Combine 3 oz of smooth bourbon and mineral water in a highball glass for a classic cocktail that's easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Ideal for beginning bartenders looking to impress their guests with a timeless tipple. Sip, savor, and repeat!
Bourbon and Branch Ingredients
- 3 oz Bourbon
- Mineral Water
Bourbon and Branch Recipe
- stir the ingredients together with ice
- prepare Highball glass halfway with ice
Recommend: serve in Highball glass
The highball (or hi-ball) and collins glasses have a lot in common. They can both be used for tall beverages and hold the same amount of liquid, which can range from 8 to 16 ounces.The Bourbon and Branch: A Classic Cocktail That Never Goes Out of Style
As a professional bartender, I have seen my fair share of cocktail trends come and go, but there are some classic drinks that never lose their popularity. One such classic is the Bourbon and Branch. In this article, we will explore the history and origins of this famous cocktail, the role of its ingredients, how to garnish it, and some variations to try. We will also discuss common mistakes that people make when making this cocktail.
Popularity
History
The Bourbon and Branch is a classic cocktail that is believed to have originated in the United States in the 19th century. It is a simple cocktail that consists of just two ingredients: bourbon and mineral water. The drink was popularized during the Prohibition era when people would often add water to their whiskey to dilute the alcohol content and make it more palatable. The term "branch" in the name of the cocktail refers to the addition of water, which is often called "branch water" in the southern United States.
Famous For
The Bourbon and Branch is famous for its simplicity and its ability to showcase the flavor of the bourbon. Unlike other cocktails that have a long list of ingredients, the Bourbon and Branch allows the natural flavors of the bourbon to shine through. It is also a popular cocktail among whiskey enthusiasts who appreciate the subtlety of the drink.
Geographic
The Bourbon and Branch is a cocktail that is closely associated with the southern United States. It is a popular drink in states like Kentucky, Tennessee, and Georgia. However, its popularity has spread beyond the south, and it can now be found in bars and restaurants across the country.
Appearance
The Bourbon and Branch is a simple cocktail that has a clear, golden color. It is typically served in a highball glass with ice and a garnish of lemon or orange peel.
Ingredient Roles
The Bourbon and Branch is a simple cocktail that consists of just two ingredients: bourbon and mineral water. The role of each ingredient is as follows:
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Bourbon: The bourbon is the star of the show in the Bourbon and Branch. It provides the flavor and the alcohol content for the cocktail. When choosing a bourbon for this cocktail, it is important to choose one that has a smooth, mellow flavor. Brands like Maker's Mark, Wild Turkey, and Jim Beam are all good options.
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Mineral Water: The mineral water is added to the bourbon to dilute the alcohol content and make the drink more palatable. It also adds a slight mineral flavor to the cocktail. When choosing a mineral water for this cocktail, it is important to choose one that is high in minerals and has a neutral flavor. Brands like San Pellegrino and Perrier are good options.
How to Garnish
The Bourbon and Branch is typically garnished with a twist of lemon or orange peel. To garnish the cocktail, simply slice a thin strip of peel from a lemon or orange and twist it over the top of the cocktail to release the oils. Then, drop the peel into the glass.
Variations
While the Bourbon and Branch is a classic cocktail, there are several variations that you can try. Some popular variations include:
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Virgin/Mocktail Version: To make a virgin version of the Bourbon and Branch, simply replace the bourbon with a non-alcoholic alternative like Seedlip Spice 94. Add the mineral water as usual, and garnish with a twist of lemon or orange peel.
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Gluten-Free Version: The Bourbon and Branch is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free bourbon. Some popular gluten-free bourbons include Maker's Mark and Bulleit Bourbon.
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Vegan Version: The Bourbon and Branch is already a vegan cocktail as it does not contain any animal products.
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Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly version of the Bourbon and Branch, replace the mineral water with sparkling mineral water or club soda to reduce the carb count.
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Low-Calorie Version: To make a low-calorie version of the Bourbon and Branch, use a low-calorie bourbon like Skinnygirl Bourbon. You can also reduce the amount of bourbon you use and add more mineral water to lower the calorie count.
Common Mistakes When Making
While the Bourbon and Branch is a simple cocktail, there are some common mistakes that people make when making it. These include:
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Using the wrong type of bourbon: When making the Bourbon and Branch, it is important to choose a bourbon that has a smooth, mellow flavor. Avoid using bourbons that are too harsh or too spicy.
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Using too much or too little mineral water: The amount of mineral water you add to the bourbon can greatly affect the flavor of the cocktail. It is important to find the right balance to ensure that the bourbon is not too overpowering and the mineral water is not too prominent.
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Not garnishing the cocktail: While the garnish is optional, it adds a nice touch to the cocktail and helps to enhance the flavor.
In conclusion, the Bourbon and Branch is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. Its simplicity and subtle flavor make it a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts and cocktail lovers alike. Whether you prefer the classic version or want to try a variation, the Bourbon and Branch is a cocktail that is sure to please.
If you are going to order Bourbon and Branch in a bar, don’t forget to mention all the ingredients to the bartender. Bourbon and Branch can be served with different ingredients in different places.