Kentucky Colonel
A sophisticated and potent bourbon cocktail that balances the deep oak notes of whiskey with the complex, herbal honeyed sweetness of Bénédictine. A simple yet refined drink, perfect for sipping.
What it tastes like
The aroma leads with toasted oak and herbal honey. On the palate, the high-proof bourbon delivers vanilla and caramel, tempered by medicinal spice and cloves. The texture is viscous and mouth-coating, ending with a dry woodiness and a sharp citrus accent.
Flavour profile
Ingredients
- Bourbon Whiskey3 oz
- Bénédictine0.5 oz
- Lemon Peel1 slice
Preparation
- 1
Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice cubes.
- 2
Pour the Bourbon and Bénédictine into the shaker.
- 3
Shake vigorously until the outside of the shaker is frosty.
- 4
Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
- 5
Express the oils from the lemon peel over the drink and drop it in as a garnish.
Substitutions
- Bourbon WhiskeyRye Whiskey — Rye introduces a sharp, peppery spice that cuts through the sugar in the Bénédictine.
- BénédictineDrambuie — Using Drambuie replaces the medicinal herbs with heather honey and a faint scotch smoke.
- BénédictineYellow Chartreuse — This substitute offers a more floral and honey-forward herbal profile while maintaining the sweetness.
- Lemon PeelOrange Peel — An orange peel garnish provides deeper citrus oils that better match the vanilla notes of the bourbon.
Variations
Kentucky Colonel Bittered
Add two dashes of aromatic bitters to increase the complexity and dry out the finish.
The Stirred Colonel
Stir the ingredients instead of shaking to produce a clearer liquid with a heavier, silkier mouthfeel.