A Wild Turkey cocktail is bold, smooth, and just the right amount of sweet. It’s got the warmth of bourbon, the tartness of cranberry, and a touch of honey to tie it all together. Whether you’re sipping it by the fire on a chilly evening or enjoying it with friends at a summer barbecue, this drink never disappoints. I’ve made this cocktail countless times, and every time, it’s a hit. Let’s get into how to make it just right.
Wild Turkey
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) Wild Turkey Bourbon
- 1 oz (30ml) apple cider
- 1 oz (30ml) cranberry juice
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Ice cubes (enough to fill your glass)
Glass choice: A rocks glass is perfect for this cocktail, keeping the flavors bold and concentrated. If you like a lighter drink, a highball glass with extra ice and a splash of soda works well too.
How to Make It
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the bourbon, apple cider, cranberry juice, and lemon juice.
- Add the honey—it helps balance the tartness.
- Shake well until everything is chilled and combined.
- Strain into a glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with an apple slice or a lemon twist, if you’d like.
That’s it! Simple, smooth, and full of rich flavor.
Tips for the Best Wild Turkey Cocktail
- Use fresh lemon juice. Bottled juice just doesn’t have the same brightness.
- Shake it well. This helps the honey blend in smoothly.
- Adjust the sweetness. If you like it a little sweeter, add an extra drizzle of honey. Too sweet? A little extra lemon juice will balance it out.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Planning for a party? You can mix everything except the ice ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a few hours. When ready to serve, just shake with ice and pour.
Leftovers? This cocktail is best fresh, but if you have extra, store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a day. Give it a quick shake before serving.
What to Serve It With
This cocktail pairs beautifully with bold, savory flavors.
- Grilled meats: The smoky, caramelized edges of a steak or barbecue ribs go perfectly with the bourbon’s warmth.
- Sharp cheeses: Aged cheddar or gouda brings out the drink’s rich, deep notes.
- Dark chocolate: The slight bitterness of dark chocolate balances the cocktail’s sweetness for a smooth, indulgent finish.
Variations to Try
Want to mix things up? Try these fun twists on the classic:
Autumn Wild Turkey 🍂
- Add a pinch of cinnamon and swap the apple cider for a little pumpkin puree.
- Shake well and garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Summer Wild Turkey ☀️
- Muddle some fresh mint leaves with the honey before adding the other ingredients.
- Finish with a splash of soda water for a refreshing twist.
Wild Turkey Sour 🍋
- Add ½ oz simple syrup and one egg white.
- Shake vigorously, then strain into a coupe glass for a smooth, foamy finish.
Non-Alcoholic Version 🍏
- Mix apple cider, cranberry juice, lemon juice, and honey over ice.
- Garnish with an apple slice for a festive touch.
Common Questions
What’s the best season for a Wild Turkey cocktail?
It’s great year-round, but the warm, spiced flavors make it especially cozy in fall and winter.
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Absolutely! Just multiply the ingredients and mix everything in a large pitcher. Keep it chilled and serve over ice.
What’s the best bourbon-to-mixer ratio?
A good starting point is 2 parts bourbon to 1 part each of the mixers. Adjust to taste!
Can I use bottled mixers instead of fresh juice?
You can, but fresh juice makes a huge difference in flavor.
How should I store my Wild Turkey bourbon?
Keep it sealed, in a cool, dark place. This keeps the flavors rich and smooth.
This has been my go-to cocktail for cozy nights in and casual get-togethers. It’s easy to make, packed with bold flavors, and always a crowd-pleaser. Try it out and let me know how you like it! 🍹
