A well-made Revolver is smooth, bold, and just a little mysterious—like a great conversation by a crackling fire. This simple yet sophisticated cocktail brings together bourbon, coffee liqueur, and orange bitters for a rich, slightly smoky drink with a hint of sweetness. If you love whiskey-based cocktails with depth, this one’s for you.
Revolver
I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip: the right bourbon makes all the difference. A smooth, caramel-forward bourbon will blend beautifully, while a spicier one will add an extra kick. Either way, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) bourbon – Choose a bourbon with warm caramel and vanilla notes for the best balance.
- 0.5 oz (15ml) coffee liqueur – Kahlúa works well, but any quality coffee liqueur will do.
- 2 dashes orange bitters – Adds a subtle citrus depth.
- Orange peel – For garnish, and to add a final aromatic touch.
- Ice – For stirring and serving.
Equipment
- Mixing glass – For properly chilling the cocktail.
- Bar spoon – Stirring helps keep the drink silky smooth.
- Strainer – To pour cleanly into the glass.
- Rocks glass – The perfect vessel for sipping.
Method
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Pour in the bourbon, coffee liqueur, and orange bitters.
- Stir for about 20 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled rocks glass over a large ice cube.
- Hold an orange peel over the drink, give it a quick squeeze to release the oils, then rub it around the rim before dropping it in.
Tip: Stirring (instead of shaking) keeps the drink smooth and clear, rather than cloudy and overly diluted.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail is bold but balanced, making it a great after-dinner drink or a cozy nightcap. It pairs beautifully with:
- Dark chocolate – Enhances the coffee and bourbon notes.
- Smoked meats – Brisket or ribs bring out the warm, spicy flavors.
- Spiced nuts – A crunchy, salty contrast to the smooth cocktail.
I love serving this with a small piece of dark chocolate—it’s an instant, effortless dessert.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- You can pre-mix a batch (without ice) and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just stir well before serving.
- If you want to keep it chilled longer, store it in a sealed bottle in the fridge and pour over ice when ready.
Variations & Customizations
Want to switch things up? Here are a few fun twists:
Midnight Revolver
- Swap the coffee liqueur for dark chocolate liqueur.
- Garnish with a dark chocolate twist for extra richness.
Smoky Revolver
- Add a splash of Islay scotch for a smoky edge.
- Use a smoked ice cube to enhance the effect.
Vanilla Revolver
- Use vanilla-infused bourbon for a smoother, sweeter take.
- Garnish with a vanilla bean for extra aroma.
Non-Alcoholic Option
- Swap the bourbon for a smoky black tea or a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative.
- Use coffee syrup instead of coffee liqueur.
Common Questions
Can I make this drink sweeter?
Yes! Use a sweeter coffee liqueur or add a tiny splash of simple syrup.
What’s the best bourbon for a Revolver?
A medium-bodied bourbon with caramel and spice works best. Bulleit, Woodford Reserve, or Maker’s Mark are great choices.
Can I batch this for a party?
Absolutely! Mix everything (except ice) in advance, chill, and pour over ice when serving.
How do I flame an orange peel?
Hold the peel over the drink, warm it slightly with a lighter, then squeeze to release the oils. You’ll see a quick flash of flame—it’s a fun touch!
A Revolver is more than just a cocktail—it’s an experience. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or impressing guests, this rich, coffee-kissed bourbon drink always hits the mark. Enjoy!
