Paul Kushner
Watermelon Bourbon Lemonade is a smooth, summery cocktail that balances sweet, tart, and bold flavors. Fresh watermelon adds a juicy, light sweetness that blends perfectly with the kick of bourbon and the brightness of lemonade. It’s refreshing but still packs a little heat from the whiskey, making it great for cookouts, porch hangs, or warm nights when you want something that’s easy to sip but full of flavor. Serve it over ice with a watermelon wedge or lemon slice for a clean, crisp finish. It’s simple, crowd-friendly, and hits just right when the sun’s out.
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Tasting Notes
The Watermelon Bourbon Lemonade is a refreshing, fruity, and slightly smoky cocktail that blends juicy watermelon, tart lemon, and rich bourbon into a perfectly balanced drink. The sweetness of the watermelon and simple syrup smooths out the bourbon’s warmth, while the club soda adds a light, effervescent finish. This cocktail is refreshing yet bold, making it an excellent summer sipper with a refined Southern twist. Garnished with a lemon wheel and a watermelon slice, it’s both visually stunning and packed with fresh flavors.
Equipment and Glassware
To craft the Watermelon Bourbon Lemonade, you’ll need a cocktail shaker for mixing, a jigger for precise measurements, and a fine mesh strainer to ensure smooth watermelon juice. A rocks glass or highball glass works best for serving, and a bar spoon is useful for stirring in the club soda. A sharp knife is also necessary for cutting fresh watermelon and lemon garnishes.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 2 oz watermelon juice blend and strain watermelon chunks
- 1 oz club soda
- Lemon wheel and watermelon slice for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and watermelon juice to the shaker.
- Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
- Fill a glass with ice and strain the mixture into the glass.
- Top with club soda and stir gently.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel and a watermelon slice.
Pro Tips
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best bright, tangy flavor.
- Chill the watermelon juice before mixing for a crisp, refreshing sip.
- Shake the cocktail thoroughly to fully blend the flavors before adding club soda.
- If you prefer a sweeter drink, add an extra ¼ oz of simple syrup.
- For a spicier twist, muddle a few basil leaves or add a splash of ginger beer instead of club soda.
When to Serve
The Watermelon Bourbon Lemonade is a perfect summer cocktail, ideal for barbecues, poolside lounging, outdoor picnics, and backyard parties. Its refreshing and slightly smoky profile also makes it a great drink for bourbon lovers who want something lighter and fruitier. Whether served at summer gatherings, Fourth of July celebrations, or a casual weekend happy hour, this cocktail is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
For a smooth yet flavorful bourbon, try Woodford Reserve, Buffalo Trace, or Bulleit Bourbon. Fresh watermelon juice is best for flavor, but a high-quality cold-pressed juice (like WTRMLN WTR) can be used as a shortcut. Fever-Tree Club Soda is a great option for a clean, refreshing fizz.
Similar Cocktails
- Kiwi Vodka Lemonade
- Pomegranate Vodka Lemonade
- Blood Orange Bourbon Lemonade
- Blueberry Bourbon Lemonade
- Peach Bourbon Lemonade
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 2 oz watermelon juice blend and strain watermelon chunks
- 1 oz club soda
- Lemon wheel and watermelon slice for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and watermelon juice to the shaker.
- Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
- Fill a glass with ice and strain the mixture into the glass.
- Top with club soda and stir gently.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel and a watermelon slice.
