Spring Bourbon Tonic

Spring is perfect for refreshing drinks and the Spring Bourbon Tonic is a top pick. This drink mixes smooth bourbon with the deep flavor of Amontillado sherry, balanced by homemade thyme and honey syrup for a subtle herbal sweetness. Lemon juice adds just the right amount of tang, and a dash of bitters rounds it all off. It’s a hit at any gathering, offering a fresh twist that keeps everyone coming back for more. Try making this Spring Bourbon Tonic at your next party.

Tasting Notes

This cocktail offers a perfect harmony of herbal, nutty, and citrusy flavors. The bourbon’s warmth pairs beautifully with the dry richness of Amontillado sherry, while thyme and honey syrup add an earthy sweetness. A hint of lemon juice brightens the profile, creating a smooth, aromatic, and well-balanced drink.

Equipment and Glassware

A cocktail shaker ensures proper mixing, while a fine strainer provides a smooth pour. Serve in a chilled coupe or rocks glass to highlight the drink’s refined nature. A fresh thyme sprig adds a fragrant garnish that enhances both the cocktail’s aroma and its elegant presentation.

Ingredients

For the Thyme and Honey Syrup:

• 1 large piece fresh thyme with at least 5 branches
• 8 oz hot water near simmering temperature
• 8 oz honey

For the Spring Bourbon Tonic:

• 1 1/2 oz. bourbon
• 3/4 oz. Amontillado sherry
• 3/4 oz. Thyme & Honey Syrup
• 1/4 oz. lemon juice
• 1 dash bitters
• Garnish: Thyme sprig

Instructions

Making the Thyme and Honey Syrup:

• Prepare the Thyme: Rinse the thyme under cold water to clean it.
• Make the Syrup: In a small saucepan or mixing bowl, combine the hot water and honey, stirring until the honey dissolves completely.
• Infuse the Thyme: Add the thyme to the honey-water mixture while it’s still hot. Let the thyme steep, or until the syrup has fully absorbed the thyme flavor.
• Strain: Remove the thyme and strain the syrup to ensure it’s clear of debris.

Mixing the Spring Bourbon Tonic:

• Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, Amontillado sherry, Thyme & Honey Syrup, lemon juice, and bitters.
• Shake: Fill the shaker with ice and shake well until the mixture is well-chilled.
• Strain and Serve: Strain the cocktail into a chilled glass.
• Garnish: Garnish with a fresh sprig of thyme.

Pro Tips

• Use a high-quality, well-balanced bourbon like Woodford Reserve or Elijah Craig.
• If you prefer a lighter touch, adjust the honey syrup for added sweetness.
• Shaking well aerates the cocktail, creating a silky texture.
• For extra depth, lightly smack the thyme sprig before garnishing to release its aromatic oils.

When to Serve

Ideal for spring and summer, this cocktail shines at garden parties, brunches, and outdoor gatherings. Its herbaceous and refreshing profile makes it a sophisticated choice for warm afternoons, casual evenings, or as a unique bourbon-based alternative to lighter gin or vodka cocktails.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Choose a smooth bourbon like Buffalo Trace, Four Roses Small Batch, or Basil Hayden’s. Amontillado sherry from Lustau or Hidalgo offers rich, nutty complexity. Use high-quality bitters like Angostura or Peychaud’s to bring subtle spice, and opt for fresh, homemade thyme and honey syrup for the best flavor.

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Spring Bourbon Tonic

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Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

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Course: Drinks

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Bourbon

Servings: 1

Author: Paul Kushner

Love fresh cocktails? Try the Spring Bourbon Tonic today.

Equipment

• Shaker
• Measuring Jigger
• Small saucepan
• Strainer
• Glass

Ingredients

For the Thyme and Honey Syrup:

• 1 large piece fresh thyme with at least 5 branches
• 8 oz hot water near simmering temperature
• 8 oz honey

For the Spring Bourbon Tonic:

• 1 1/2 oz. bourbon
• 3/4 oz. Amontillado sherry
• 3/4 oz. Thyme & Honey Syrup
• 1/4 oz. lemon juice
• 1 dash bitters
• Garnish: Thyme sprig

Instructions

Making the Thyme and Honey Syrup:

• Prepare the Thyme: Rinse the thyme under cold water to clean it.
• Make the Syrup: In a small saucepan or mixing bowl, combine the hot water and honey, stirring until the honey dissolves completely.
• Infuse the Thyme: Add the thyme to the honey-water mixture while it's still hot. Let the thyme steep, or until the syrup has fully absorbed the thyme flavor.
• Strain: Remove the thyme and strain the syrup to ensure it’s clear of debris.

Mixing the Spring Bourbon Tonic:

• Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, Amontillado sherry, Thyme & Honey Syrup, lemon juice, and bitters.
• Shake: Fill the shaker with ice and shake well until the mixture is well-chilled.
• Strain and Serve: Strain the cocktail into a chilled glass.
• Garnish: Garnish with a fresh sprig of thyme.

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