Hey there, I’m Jacob Allen from Beyond The Bayou Blog, your friendly cocktail enthusiast! Today, I mixed up a batch of classic Boulevardier cocktails that never fail to bring a smile to my face. There’s something about the blend of bourbon, Campari, and sweet vermouth that just warms my heart.
As I was stirring the ingredients, memories of a trip to Italy flooded my mind. I had the opportunity to taste authentic Italian Boulevardier made by a local bartender in a cozy bar name Fio. The taste and balanced bitterness were simply so unique.
That experience inspired me to perfect my own Boulevardier recipe, and I’m excited to share it with you today. Let’s mix and savor a little taste of Italy together! Looking for more cocktail recipes?
What’s the Meaning And History of Boulevardier?
“Boulevardier” means someone who frequents boulevards, or more broadly, a socialite or a person who enjoys the urban lifestyle.
The Boulevardier cocktail dates back to 1927 and is credited to Harry McElhone, who owned Harry’s New York Bar in Paris. McElhone, like many bartenders affected by Prohibition, moved to Europe. There, he blended American cocktail techniques with European spirits like Campari to create the Boulevardier.
Overview: How to Make Boulevardier Recipe?
The Boulevardier cocktail is a classic drink that combines bourbon, Campari, and sweet vermouth. It’s simple yet sophisticated, with each ingredient contributing to its unique flavor profile. The bourbon brings a rich and smooth taste, while the Campari adds a bold and bitter kick, balanced out by the sweetness of the vermouth.
Making a Boulevardier is easy and fun. Just mix the ingredients together in a glass with ice, give it a good stir, and strain it into a chilled glass. Garnish with an orange twist for a pop of color and aroma. It’s a versatile cocktail that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite snacks or appetizers.
Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of mixology, the Boulevardier is sure to impress. Its timeless appeal and delicious flavor make it a go-to choice for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant soirées. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of sophistication with this classic cocktail. Cheers!
Boulevardier Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing Glass
- Bar spoon
- Jigger
- Strainer
- Coupe glass
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 ounces bourbon
- 1 ounce Campari
- 1 ounce sweet vermouth
- Orange twist for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Add bourbon, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
- Stir until well-chilled, about 30 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with an orange twist.
Notes
- For a twist, try using different types of bourbon or experimenting with aged versions for a richer flavor profile.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sweet vermouth according to your preference.
Nutrition
My 3 Personal Tips For Boulevardier Recipe
Tip 1: Experiment with different bourbon varieties to find the perfect balance of flavor for your Boulevardier.
Tip 2: Don’t rush the stirring process; take your time to ensure proper dilution and a well-chilled cocktail.
Tip 3: For an extra twist, try flame-expressing the orange peel garnish to release its aromatic oils before adding it to the drink.
What To Serve With Boulevardier Recipe?
Ratio For Traditional Boulevardier Recipe
The original Boulevardier cocktail used equal parts of bourbon, Campari, and sweet vermouth. However, we like to add an extra ounce of bourbon to balance the flavors better and prevent the Campari from being too strong.
Can I Make a Non-Alcoholic Version of the Boulevardier?
Yes, you can! To make a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the bourbon with a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative or a flavorful alcohol-free spirit. You can also adjust the sweetness and bitterness by using non-alcoholic versions of sweet vermouth and Campari or by incorporating flavored syrups and bitters.
What’s the Best Garnish for a Boulevardier?
While the classic garnish for a Boulevardier is an orange twist, you can get creative with your garnishes. Experiment with lemon twists, grapefruit peels, or even a Luxardo cherry to add an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal to your cocktail.