Paul Kushner
Spring calls for a refreshing twist on classic cocktails, and the Rosemary Bourbon Lemonade is just that. Mixing rosemary-infused bourbon with tangy lemonade and a hint of bitters creates a smooth, flavorful drink. The touch of egg white adds a frothy texture that complements the herbal notes perfectly. This drink is a personal favorite because it’s both refreshing and robust, offering a lovely balance that’s hard to beat on a warm day. You’ll want to try making this Rosemary Bourbon Lemonade at home; it’s truly a crowd-pleaser.
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Tasting Notes
This cocktail is a perfect balance of herbal, citrusy, and rich flavors. The rosemary-infused bourbon adds an earthy depth, while lemonade provides bright acidity. A silky egg white froth smooths the texture, and bitters bring subtle complexity. The result is a refreshing yet sophisticated drink with a delightful aromatic finish.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a cocktail shaker for emulsifying the egg white, a fine mesh strainer to ensure a smooth pour, and a chilled coupe or rocks glass for serving. A small jar or glass is essential for infusing the bourbon with rosemary, enhancing the herbal character of the cocktail.
Ingredients
- 1 stem of rosemary about 1 Tbsp rosemary leaves
- 6 oz lemonade
- 4 oz bourbon
- 1 egg white
- 5-6 dashes of classic bitters
Instructions
- Prepare the Rosemary Infused Bourbon:
- Strip the leaves from the rosemary stem and place them in a small jar or glass.
- Pour the bourbon over the rosemary leaves.
- Allow the bourbon to infuse for at least 30 minutes. For a stronger rosemary flavor, you can let it infuse for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
- Mix the Cocktail:
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the rosemary-infused bourbon (strained), lemonade, egg white, and bitters.
- Dry shake (shake without ice) vigorously for about 15 seconds. This helps to create a frothy texture from the egg white.
- Add Ice and Shake Again:
- Add a handful of ice to the shaker.
- Shake again vigorously until the mixture is well chilled, about another 15 seconds.
- Serve:
- Strain the mixture into a chilled glass. You can use a fine mesh strainer to ensure no ice or rosemary bits make it into the glass.
- Optionally, garnish with a small sprig of rosemary or a twist of lemon peel to enhance the presentation.
- Enjoy:
- Your Rosemary Bourbon Lemonade is ready! The herbal notes of the rosemary, combined with the richness of bourbon and the tanginess of lemonade, create a delightful spring cocktail.
Pro Tips
- For a stronger rosemary flavor, let the infusion sit for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
- Use fresh-squeezed lemonade for the best balance of tartness and sweetness.
- When shaking, dry shake vigorously to build a rich froth before adding ice for optimal texture and chill.
When to Serve
Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, this cocktail shines at garden parties, brunches, and elegant evening events. Its refreshing yet refined character makes it ideal for warm afternoons, celebratory toasts, or as a unique bourbon-based alternative to classic lemon cocktails.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
A smooth, well-rounded bourbon like Woodford Reserve, Buffalo Trace, or Four Roses Small Batch works beautifully. For bitters, classic Angostura adds depth. Use high-quality lemonade or make your own for the freshest, most vibrant flavor.
Similar Cocktails
If you enjoy Rosemary Bourbon Lemonade, here are five similar cocktails to try:
- New York Sour Shot
- Maple Bourbon Harvest
- Kentucky Peach Bourbon and Vodka Cocktail
- Plum Bourbon Sour
- White Christmas Bourbon Smash
Equipment
- Measuring Cup
Ingredients
- 1 stem of rosemary about 1 Tbsp rosemary leaves
- 6 oz lemonade
- 4 oz bourbon
- 1 egg white
- 5-6 dashes of classic bitters
Instructions
- Prepare the Rosemary Infused Bourbon:
- Strip the leaves from the rosemary stem and place them in a small jar or glass.
- Pour the bourbon over the rosemary leaves.
- Allow the bourbon to infuse for at least 30 minutes. For a stronger rosemary flavor, you can let it infuse for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
- Mix the Cocktail:
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the rosemary-infused bourbon (strained), lemonade, egg white, and bitters.
- Dry shake (shake without ice) vigorously for about 15 seconds. This helps to create a frothy texture from the egg white.
- Add Ice and Shake Again:
- Add a handful of ice to the shaker.
- Shake again vigorously until the mixture is well chilled, about another 15 seconds.
- Serve:
- Strain the mixture into a chilled glass. You can use a fine mesh strainer to ensure no ice or rosemary bits make it into the glass.
- Optionally, garnish with a small sprig of rosemary or a twist of lemon peel to enhance the presentation.
- Enjoy:
- Your Rosemary Bourbon Lemonade is ready! The herbal notes of the rosemary, combined with the richness of bourbon and the tanginess of lemonade, create a delightful spring cocktail.
