There’s something special about a drink that’s both bold and refreshing – and the Bourbon Renewal hits that sweet spot every time. It’s smooth and rich from the bourbon, with a splash of tart lemon and the deep berry sweetness of blackcurrant liqueur. A dash of bitters ties everything together in one perfectly balanced cocktail. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to impress. Whether you’re new to bourbon or already a fan, this is one to keep in your rotation.
Bourbon Renewal
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glass: Rocks glass or coupe glass
Ingredients
– Bourbon: 2 oz (60 ml) – a smooth, mid-range bourbon works best
– Crème de cassis or blackcurrant liqueur: ½ oz (15 ml)
– Fresh lemon juice: 1 oz (30 ml) – always squeeze it fresh for the brightest flavor
– Simple syrup: ½ oz (15 ml) – adjust to taste or swap with honey syrup for a deeper sweetness
– Angostura bitters: 1 dash
– Ice cubes: for shaking and serving
– Optional garnish: lemon twist or fresh berries
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
- Pour in the bourbon, crème de cassis, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and bitters.
- Shake it up for about 15 seconds – you want the outside of the shaker to feel nice and cold.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. For a fancier touch, use a coupe glass with no ice.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or a few blackberries if you’d like.
Tips & Tricks
– Fresh lemon juice makes all the difference – bottled just won’t have the same zing.
– Chill your glass ahead of time if you’re serving up (no ice). Just pop it in the freezer for 10 minutes.
– Try different bourbons to see what you like best. Some are sweeter, some spicier – both work great here.
– If it tastes too sweet for you, just ease up on the simple syrup or swap in a sugar-free version.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Planning for a party? You can easily batch this cocktail:
– Multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need.
– Stir everything (except the ice) in a large pitcher and refrigerate.
– When you’re ready to serve, pour over ice and garnish.
Leftovers (if any) can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days – just give it a quick shake before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail shines all on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:
Barbecue
That smoky, savory meat meets its match with the drink’s fruity tang and bourbon warmth.
Dark Chocolate
Try it with a square of rich dark chocolate or a flourless chocolate cake – the combo is indulgent and balanced.
Spicy Snacks
Spicy wings or jalapeño poppers? This cocktail cools things down with its citrusy bite and smooth finish.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio, but honestly, it’s just as good by the fireplace in winter.
Twists & Variations
Want to change it up?
– Try rye instead of bourbon for a spicier version.
– Use cherry liqueur instead of cassis for a slightly different fruit profile.
– Swap the syrup: Honey syrup (equal parts honey and hot water) adds a richer, floral sweetness.
Seasonal Spins
Autumn Renewal
– Replace bourbon with apple brandy
– Garnish with a cinnamon stick
– Adds cozy, fall vibes
Summer Berry Renewal
– Muddle a few raspberries or blackberries in the shaker before adding the other ingredients
– Super fresh and fruity
Tropical Renewal
– Add a splash (30 ml) of coconut water
– Garnish with a pineapple wedge
– Light and beachy
Non-Alcoholic Option
Want the flavor without the booze? Mix:
– 1 oz (30 ml) lemon juice
– ½ oz (15 ml) blackcurrant syrup (like Ribena)
– A splash of soda water
Serve over ice for a refreshing mocktail.
FAQs
Can I make it without crème de cassis?
Yes! You can use cherry liqueur, blackberry liqueur, or even pomegranate syrup. It changes the flavor, but keeps the balance.
What’s the best bourbon to use?
Go for a mid-range bourbon that’s smooth and not too oaky. You don’t want it to overpower the other ingredients.
How do I make it less sweet?
Just reduce the simple syrup to ¼ oz (7 ml), or leave it out entirely if your liqueur is sweet enough.
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Absolutely. Just mix everything ahead of time, keep it chilled, and pour over ice when ready to serve.
Can I skip the bitters?
You can, but they add depth. If you don’t have Angostura, try orange bitters or even a splash of aromatic bitters you like.
Final Thoughts
The Bourbon Renewal is one of those cocktails that feels both classic and fresh. It’s easy to make, easy to love, and totally customizable. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet night in or mixing up a batch for friends, it’s sure to be a hit. Try it once – it just might become your new favorite.
