If you’re craving a cocktail that’s rich, cozy, and just a little indulgent, the Hunter Cocktail might be your new favorite. This classic drink blends the warmth of bourbon with the sweet, fruity depth of cherry brandy, finished with a bright splash of lemon juice. It’s simple to make but feels like a treat—perfect for chilly nights or as a smooth after-dinner sip. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it never fails to impress. Let’s get started!
Hunter Cocktail
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make one Hunter Cocktail:
- 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon
- 1 oz (30 ml) cherry brandy
- 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
- Ice cubes
- 1 maraschino cherry (for garnish)
Optional equipment: A shaker for mixing and a rocks glass for serving. If you don’t have a rocks glass, a short tumbler or even a highball glass will work.
Prep Time & Serving
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 1 cocktail
Method
- Grab a cocktail shaker and fill it about halfway with ice cubes. This step chills the drink as you mix it.
- Pour in 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon, 1 oz (30 ml) cherry brandy, and 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice.
- Seal the shaker and give it a good shake—about 10-15 seconds—until it feels cold to the touch.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled rocks glass filled with fresh ice. (Pro tip: To chill the glass ahead of time, pop it in the freezer for 10 minutes.)
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry and serve immediately. Cheers!
Tips for Success
- Fresh is best. Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes a noticeable difference in flavor. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice will work, but the drink won’t be quite as vibrant.
- Chill everything. A cold cocktail is key! Keep your bourbon and cherry brandy in the fridge, and don’t skip chilling the glass if you have time.
- Shake it like you mean it. Shaking not only chills the drink but also blends the flavors beautifully.
Substitutions & Variations
- No cherry brandy? Swap it with cherry liqueur for a sweeter twist or even a splash of cherry juice if you’re improvising.
- Prefer rye? You can use rye whiskey instead of bourbon for a spicier, bolder flavor.
- Lime over lemon. Lime juice works just as well and adds a slightly sharper tang.
- Make it less sweet. Reduce the cherry brandy to 0.5 oz (15 ml) if you’d like a more bourbon-forward drink.
Make-Ahead Notes
If you’re serving a crowd, you can multiply the recipe by the number of servings and mix everything in a pitcher ahead of time. Keep it in the fridge, and when you’re ready to serve, shake individual portions with ice before pouring. This keeps the drink fresh and chilled.
Serving Suggestions
The Hunter Cocktail pairs beautifully with rich, savory snacks or desserts. Here are some of my favorites:
- Smoked meats: Think smoked sausage, prosciutto, or a charcuterie board. The smoky flavors play off the bourbon perfectly.
- Dark chocolate: A square of good-quality dark chocolate makes this drink feel extra decadent.
- Aged cheeses: Try it with a sharp cheddar or crumbly blue cheese for a sophisticated pairing.
Variations to Try
If you’re feeling adventurous, here are a few fun twists on the classic Hunter Cocktail:
Hunter’s Sour
- Add a touch of simple syrup for extra sweetness and shake with an egg white for a creamy, frothy texture.
Hunter’s Twist
- Swap the lemon juice for lime juice, and top the drink with a splash of ginger beer for a spicy kick.
Hunter’s Punch
- Mix bourbon, cherry brandy, pineapple juice, and a dash of grenadine for a tropical spin. Serve over ice in a larger glass.
Non-Alcoholic Version
- For a zero-proof option, combine cherry juice, lemon juice, and a splash of soda water. Garnish with a maraschino cherry, and you’ve got a refreshing Virgin Hunter Cocktail.
Storage Tips
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftover mixed liquid (without ice), you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake it with ice before serving to bring it back to life.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of whiskey?
Absolutely! Rye whiskey adds a spicy edge, while a sweeter bourbon keeps it smooth and mellow.
What’s the best way to chill the glass?
Pop it in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes before serving. If you’re short on time, fill it with ice water while you prep the cocktail, then dump the water before pouring the drink.
How do I scale this for a party?
Multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need, mix in a pitcher, and refrigerate. Shake individual servings with ice as needed for the best texture and chill.
Can I make this less sweet?
Sure! Reduce the cherry brandy to 0.5 oz (15 ml) or swap it for a less sweet cherry liqueur.
What other garnishes work well?
A twist of lemon peel or a fresh cherry can add a lovely touch if you don’t have maraschino cherries on hand.
What’s the best bourbon to use?
Go for a mid-range bourbon—something smooth but not too expensive, like Maker’s Mark or Buffalo Trace.
The Hunter Cocktail is a cozy, comforting classic that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or serving it up for friends, it’s sure to be a hit. Let me know how yours turns out—I’d love to hear your favorite variations!
