Paul Kushner
The Watermelon Bourbon Lemonade is a refreshing and flavorful cocktail that perfectly balances the sweetness of fresh watermelon juice with the tartness of lemon and the smooth warmth of bourbon. This easy-to-make drink is ideal for hot days, offering a burst of summer flavor with every sip. A splash of club soda adds a light fizz, making it even more refreshing.
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Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or just looking for a crisp, seasonal drink, this cocktail is sure to impress. Serve over ice and garnish with a watermelon slice or lemon wheel for a vibrant and inviting presentation.
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.
