Balboa

The Balboa Cocktail is bold, refreshing, and typically built around dark or spiced rum with cola and a squeeze of lime kind of like a grown-up version of a rum and coke with extra depth. Some versions swap in a splash of citrus liqueur or bitters to add complexity. It’s usually served over ice in a tall glass, making it a great go-to for relaxed evenings or casual get-togethers. With its mix of sweetness, spice, and fizz, the Balboa is simple, easy to enjoy, and delivers classic flavor with a little more punch.

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Tasting Notes

The Balboa is a richly layered cocktail that showcases the deep caramel and vanilla notes of bourbon, enhanced by the smooth, nutty sweetness of amaretto. Cynar introduces a delicate herbal bitterness, adding depth and complexity, while Angostura bitters bring warmth and spice, tying the flavors together seamlessly. Served over a large ice cube, this cocktail maintains its structure, allowing the flavors to evolve as it slowly chills and dilutes.

The result is a sophisticated, well-balanced sipper that offers a perfect interplay of sweet, bitter, and oaky elements, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate bold, refined cocktails.

Equipment and Glassware

To prepare the Balboa, gather a mixing glass, bar spoon, strainer, and a rocks glass to ensure a smooth and well-balanced cocktail. Stirring the ingredients in a mixing glass allows for controlled dilution, blending the bourbon, amaretto, Cynar, and bitters while maintaining their distinct characteristics.

Strain the mixture over a large ice cube in a rocks glass, which helps regulate dilution, keeping the drink chilled while preserving its depth and complexity. With the right tools and technique, this cocktail delivers a perfectly balanced sip, allowing the rich caramel, nutty sweetness, and herbal bitterness to shine with every taste.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Old Forester Bourbon
• 0.75 oz amaretto
• 0.5 oz Cynar
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• 0.5 oz simple syrup 

Instructions

1. Mix the Cocktail: In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, amaretto, Cynar, Simple syrup and Angostura bitters.
2. Stir: Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for about 20-30 seconds until well chilled.
3. Prepare the Glass: Place a large ice cube in a rocks glass.
4. Strain and Serve: Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass.
5. Garnish (Optional): A twist of orange peel or a cherry can enhance the drink’s aroma and presentation.

Pro Tips

• Use a quality bourbon like Old Forester 100, Woodford Reserve, or Buffalo Trace for a well-balanced depth of flavor.
• For a stronger herbal bitterness, increase the Cynar slightly or use a spicier bourbon.
• Express the oils from the orange peel over the drink before serving to enhance the aromatics.
• If you prefer a richer texture, stir slightly longer to achieve a well-integrated, silky consistency.

When to Serve

This cocktail is ideal for evening sipping, after-dinner drinks, or as a refined whiskey-based alternative to a classic Old Fashioned. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a well-balanced blend of sweetness, spice, and herbal complexity.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Bourbon: Old Forester 100, Buffalo Trace, Woodford Reserve
• Amaretto: Disaronno, Lazzaroni Amaretto
• Cynar: Cynar (original version)
• Bitters: Angostura Aromatic Bitters

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