When the calendar says it's spring but winter won't leave, mix up this spin on a Kentucky Mule for a taste of summer. The combination of sweet bourbon, tart lime, spicy ginger, and refreshing mint is an easy sipper to enjoy all day long.
For a drink with even more punch and personality, try the Bohemian Raspberry. Created by Tyler Smith, bartender at Whiskey Cake in Stafford, Texas, this bold twist adds homemade raspberry syrup. “The sweet bite from the ginger beer with the dry tartness of the lime juice propel the berry notes to the forefront of the cocktail and make it that much more refreshing than the classic Mule,” says Alan Dean, concept beverage manager at Whiskey Cake.
Bohemian Raspberry
- 2 oz. Buffalo Trace (or other wheated bourbon)
- 3/4 oz. raspberry syrup (recipe below)
- 3/4 oz. lime juice
- 5 large fresh mint leaves
- 2 oz. ginger beer
- 3 raspberries and 1 mint sprig for garnish
In a mixing glass, add bourbon raspberry syrup, lime juice, and mint leaves. Fill the glass 3/4 full with cubed ice. Cap your mixing glass with a shaker tin and shake for 15 to 20 seconds. Add ginger beer. Fill a Collins glass 3/4 full with cubed ice. Strain the cocktail over the ice. Garnish with raspberries on a pick and spanked mint sprig.
Raspberry Simple Syrup
- 3/4 cup fresh raspberries, rinsed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup filtered water
Place sugar and raspberries in a stainless-steel pot. Muddle until a thick paste forms. Add water and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring continuously. Remove from heat and strain into a sealable container. Allow to cool. Cover and refrigerate for up to five days.
