Kentucky B&B
A sophisticated American twist on the classic B&B, substituting the traditional Cognac with the rich, caramel notes of Kentucky Bourbon. This simple two-ingredient cocktail balances the robust heat of the whiskey with the honeyed, herbal sweetness of Benedictine, making it an exceptional digestif to enjoy after a meal.
What it tastes like
The aroma is dominated by toasted oak and vanilla, followed by heavy herbal notes of honey, clove, and saffron. On the palate, the bourbon's caramel profile merges with a viscous, honeyed texture that coats the tongue. The finish is long and dry, leaving a lingering warmth from the spirit and a subtle medicinal spice.
Flavour profile
Ingredients
- Bourbon2 oz
- Benedictine0.5 oz
Preparation
- 1
Prepare a clean brandy snifter at room temperature.
- 2
Pour the Bourbon and Benedictine directly into the glass.
- 3
Swirl the glass gently to combine the ingredients and warm the spirits slightly with your hand to release the aromatics.
- 4
Serve neat.
Substitutions
- BourbonRye Whiskey — Rye adds a sharper black pepper spice that cuts through the thick sweetness of the Benedictine.
- BenedictineYellow Chartreuse — This swap provides a similar honeyed sweetness but introduces more intense floral and saffron notes.
- BourbonCognac — Replacing bourbon with cognac returns the drink to its original French composition, resulting in a fruitier and more floral profile.
- BenedictineDrambuie — Drambuie offers a scotch-based honey profile that brings more heather and smoke to the drink.
Variations
Kentucky B&B on the Rocks
Serve the drink over a single large clear ice cube to chill the spirit and provide gradual dilution.
Aromatic B&B
Add two dashes of Angostura bitters to the snifter to intensify the herbal spices and increase the bitter finish.