Description
The Brown Derby Cocktail is a refreshing mix of bourbon or rye whiskey, fresh grapefruit juice, and honey syrup, offering a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors. Perfect for warm evenings or as an aperitif, this cocktail is easy to make and can be customized with different citrus juices or added floral notes. Enjoy it chilled with a garnish of grapefruit for a sophisticated touch.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice
- 1 oz honey syrup (1 part honey, 1 part water)
- Ice cubes
- Grapefruit twist or slice, for garnish
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, combine equal parts honey and water (1/2 cup of each). Heat over low heat, stirring until the honey is fully dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool. Store any leftover syrup in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a month.
- Cut a fresh grapefruit in half and use a citrus juicer or reamer to extract about 1 oz of juice. Strain to remove any seeds or pulp.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes. Pour in 2 oz of bourbon or rye whiskey, followed by 1 oz of freshly squeezed grapefruit juice and 1 oz of honey syrup.
- Secure the lid on the cocktail shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until well combined and chilled.
- Remove the lid and strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass using a fine mesh strainer to catch any small ice shards or pulp.
- Garnish with a grapefruit twist or slice. If using a twist, squeeze it over the drink to release the oils before placing it on the rim. If using a slice, place it on the rim or float it on top.
- Serve immediately and enjoy. For gatherings, multiply the ingredients by the number of servings needed and mix in a pitcher, keeping it chilled until ready to serve.
Notes
- For a floral note, consider adding a splash of elderflower liqueur or a dash of bitters for added complexity.
- Substitute honey syrup with agave nectar or simple syrup for a lighter version, adjusting sweetness to taste.
- Experiment with different citrus juices like orange or lemon for a unique twist on the classic Brown Derby.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes