Shotgun cocktail

Shotgun

Shot Glass
Shooter
Whiskey
Bourbon
Strong
American
Party

A potent, heavy-hitting shooter that brings together a trio of iconic American whiskies. This recipe combines the smoothness of Tennessee whiskey with the robustness of Kentucky bourbon, capped off with a high-proof float for a bold finish.

What it tastes like

The aroma is dominated by charred oak, corn sweetness, and heavy ethanol. The palate delivers intense flavors of caramel, vanilla, and spicy rye with a sharp alcoholic heat. The mouthfeel is thin and watery with a significant burn that coats the tongue. A long, warm finish is characterized by dry wood and black pepper notes.

Flavour profile

Sweet
Strength
Bitter
Complexity

Ingredients

  • Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey0.5 oz
  • Jim Beam Bourbon0.5 oz
  • Wild Turkey Bourbon1 oz

Preparation

  1. 1

    Pour the Jack Daniel's and Jim Beam directly into a shot glass.

  2. 2

    Allow the mixture to settle slightly.

  3. 3

    Gently float the Wild Turkey on top by pouring it slowly over the back of a bar spoon to create a layered effect.

  4. 4

    Serve immediately.

Substitutions

  • Jack Daniel's Tennessee WhiskeyGeorge Dickel Tennessee Whiskey — This provides a similar charcoal-mellowed profile but introduces more mineral and fruit notes.
  • Jim Beam BourbonEvan Williams Black Label — This maintains the nutty corn profile while offering a slightly drier finish.
  • Wild Turkey BourbonOld Grand-Dad Bonded Bourbon — This substitution increases the rye spice and provides a high proof suitable for layering.

Variations

Peat Shotgun

Replace the Wild Turkey float with a peated Islay Scotch to add a heavy smoke aroma to the initial sip.

Mellow Shotgun

Swap the Jim Beam for a honey whiskey liqueur to reduce the burn and add viscosity to the base layers.

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