If you’re craving a refreshing cocktail with a bright citrusy kick and a hint of whiskey warmth, Lynchburg Lemonade is just the drink for you. Sweet, tangy, and fizzy, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for hot afternoons, backyard barbecues, or just unwinding on the porch. I’ve made this countless times, and trust me—it’s one of those drinks that always hits the spot.
Lynchburg Lemonade
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a classic Lynchburg Lemonade:
- 1 ½ oz (45ml) whiskey
- 1 oz (30ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 oz (30ml) triple sec (orange liqueur)
- ½ oz (15ml) simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, heated until dissolved)
- Soda water to top it off
- Ice, as much as you need
- Lemon slices and cherries for garnish
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glassware: A highball glass works best, but if you’re feeling rustic, a mason jar adds a Southern charm that fits the vibe perfectly.
How to Make Lynchburg Lemonade
- Grab a cocktail shaker and add the whiskey, lemon juice, triple sec, and simple syrup. Toss in a few ice cubes, too.
Tip: Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes all the difference here—it’s brighter and fresher than bottled. - Seal the shaker and give it a good shake—about 10-15 seconds should do the trick. You want everything nicely mixed and chilled.
- Fill your highball glass with ice. Strain the cocktail mixture over the ice.
- Top it off with soda water, about 2-3 oz, or to your taste. Give it a gentle stir to combine.
- Add the finishing touches with a lemon slice and a maraschino cherry. Don’t skip the garnish—it makes the drink feel extra special!
Tips & Tricks
- Balance is key. If it’s too sweet, cut back on the simple syrup. Too tart? Add a splash more syrup.
- For a lighter version, use a diet soda water or skip the simple syrup altogether.
- Love bold flavors? Swap the soda water for lemon-lime soda for an extra citrusy punch.
Make-Ahead Notes
If you’re hosting, you can mix the whiskey, lemon juice, triple sec, and simple syrup ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, just pour over ice, add soda water, and garnish. Easy peasy!
Food Pairings
Lynchburg Lemonade pairs beautifully with summery dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Barbecue Ribs: The smoky, caramelized flavors of ribs are a perfect match for the tangy sweetness of this drink.
- Grilled Chicken: Lightly seasoned chicken highlights the cocktail’s citrusy notes.
- Summer Salads: A crisp salad with a zesty vinaigrette keeps things fresh and light.
I love serving this cocktail at cookouts—it just screams summer to me!
Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic, why not experiment a little? Here are some fun twists:
Spicy Lynchburg
Add a dash of hot sauce for a fiery kick. Mix it in with the other liquids in the shaker.
Frozen Lynchburg Slush
Blend all the ingredients with crushed ice for a frosty treat. Perfect for cooling off on extra-hot days!
Winter Jack Warmer
Swap soda water for warm apple cider. Serve it in a mug, and you’ve got a cozy cold-weather cocktail.
Virgin Lynchburg Lemonade
Skip the whiskey and triple sec. Mix lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water over ice. Garnish as usual for a refreshing mocktail.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Sure, but fresh lemon juice will give you a brighter, more authentic flavor.
What whiskey works best?
Tennessee whiskey like Jack Daniel’s is the classic choice, but feel free to use your favorite.
How can I make it less sweet?
Cut back on the simple syrup or use a sugar-free alternative.
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Absolutely! Multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need, mix everything except the soda water, and chill. Add soda water just before serving.
What’s a good occasion for Lynchburg Lemonade?
This drink shines at summer BBQs, picnics, or anytime you want a refreshing, laid-back cocktail.
Can it be turned into a punch?
Yes! Just scale up the recipe, add lots of ice, and toss in some lemon slices and cherries for a festive touch.
Final Thoughts
Lynchburg Lemonade is one of those cocktails that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Whether you’re sipping it solo on a sunny afternoon or serving it to friends at a party, it’s a guaranteed hit. And with so many ways to tweak the recipe, you’ll never get bored. So grab your shaker, some fresh lemons, and let this Southern classic become your new favorite drink. Cheers!
