This cocktail is a little sweet, a little tart, and just the right amount of fancy. Meet the Seelbach—a bubbly, bourbon-based drink with a citrusy kick and a touch of bitters that makes every sip feel like a celebration. Whether you’re toasting a special occasion or just winding down after a long day, the Seelbach is a classic cocktail that’s surprisingly easy to make and always impressive to serve. I’ve made this countless times for friends, and it never fails to wow them. Let me walk you through how to make it your new favorite drink.
Seelbach
Ingredients
You’ll need just a few simple ingredients to whip up this sparkling treat:
- 1 oz (30 ml) bourbon
- 1/2 oz (15 ml) orange liqueur (like Cointreau or Triple Sec)
- 3 oz (90 ml) chilled champagne
- 7 dashes of Angostura bitters
- 7 dashes of Peychaud’s bitters
- Orange twist for garnish
Prep Time & Servings
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 1 cocktail
Equipment
- Champagne flute (or a coupe glass for a vintage vibe)
- Jigger for measuring
- Bar spoon for gentle stirring
Method
- Chill your champagne flute in the freezer for a few minutes. A cold glass keeps your drink crisp and refreshing.
- Drop 7 dashes each of Angostura and Peychaud’s bitters directly into the flute. Don’t worry—this might seem like a lot, but it’s what gives the Seelbach its signature bold flavor.
- Pour in 1 oz of bourbon and 1/2 oz of orange liqueur. Use your jigger to measure for accuracy.
- Top it all off with 3 oz of chilled champagne. Pour slowly to keep the bubbles lively.
- Gently stir with a bar spoon to combine, being careful not to flatten the champagne.
- Finish with an orange twist for garnish. Run it along the rim of the glass first for a subtle citrus aroma with every sip.
And that’s it! You’ve got yourself a perfectly balanced Seelbach—bubbly, citrusy, and just a little boozy.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh champagne: The fizz is key to making this cocktail feel light and celebratory.
- Balance the bitters: If you’re new to bitters, you can start with fewer dashes and adjust to your taste.
- Chill everything: Keep your bourbon, liqueur, and champagne cold for the best results.
Food Pairings
Pairing the right bites with your Seelbach can really elevate the experience. Here are a few ideas:
- Charcuterie board: The bourbon’s warmth and the champagne’s bubbles cut beautifully through rich meats and cheeses.
- Oysters: The cocktail’s citrusy brightness complements the briny, fresh taste of oysters perfectly.
- Spicy appetizers: The sweetness from the orange liqueur balances spicy flavors like hot wings or jalapeño poppers.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the bourbon, orange liqueur, and bitters in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just pour it into your glass, top with champagne, and garnish.
Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are a few fun twists on the classic Seelbach:
Summer Seelbach
- Add fresh muddled strawberries to the bourbon and liqueur before mixing.
- Swap champagne for Prosecco for a lighter, fruitier flavor.
Spiced Seelbach
- Add a cinnamon stick and a star anise while mixing the bitters and bourbon for a cozy, spiced twist.
Herbal Seelbach
- Replace the orange liqueur with elderflower liqueur.
- Garnish with a sprig of thyme for an earthy, floral note.
Virgin Seelbach
- Skip the alcohol and use sparkling grape juice with a dash of bitters. Garnish as usual for all the charm without the booze.
Storage Tips
Seelbachs are best enjoyed fresh because of the champagne’s bubbles. However, if you have leftover bourbon and liqueur mix, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Common Questions
What’s the best bourbon to use?
Pick a bourbon that’s smooth and not too overpowering—something with a hint of caramel or vanilla works beautifully.
Can I use a different sparkling wine?
Absolutely! Prosecco or Cava are great alternatives if champagne isn’t on hand.
Why so many bitters?
The generous dashes of bitters are what make the Seelbach unique. They add layers of spice and complexity to balance the sweetness of the orange liqueur.
Can I tone down the sweetness?
Yes! Use a dry champagne or cut back slightly on the orange liqueur.
What’s the best way to garnish?
An orange twist is the classic choice, but you can also try a skewer of brandied cherries for a sweeter finish.
Final Thoughts
The Seelbach is one of those cocktails that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening, it’s a drink that brings a touch of elegance to any occasion. Play around with the variations, pair it with some great snacks, and enjoy every bubbly sip. Cheers!
