Boulevardier Cocktail

This Boulevardier is an Americanized version of the classic Negroni Cocktail, trading in the gin for rye whiskey. It’s a simple and sophisticated drink made with whiskey, Campari, and sweet vermouth served on the rocks.

 

Boulevardier Cocktail

The Boulevardier is the perfect drink for those who enjoy strong cocktails that aren’t too sugary, and here in Maine, we need something to keep us toasty since there’s no spring in sight!

After being housebound during another major snowstorm (sigh), I decided to channel my cabin fever into making some cocktails, resulting in the Boulevardier.

After all, what better way to stave off boredom while staying warm in such miserable weather?

Since I usually reach for the same few spirits and mixers, I decided to blow the dust off my bottles of Campari and sweet vermouth.

With a splash of rye whiskey and a garnish of orange rinds and maraschino cherries, I had a boozy, bitter-sweet drink in hand.

Even though it originated in Paris, France, it’s considered an Americanized version of the Negroni, since the Boulevardier is made with rye whiskey instead of the traditional gin.

Whether you prefer whiskey to gin or it’s all you have on hand, this version puts a richer, smokier twist on the original.

Compari is a spirit that’s infused with bitters, herbs, and fruit, while sweet vermouth is actually a wine made with herbs, spices, and botanicals.

The whiskey lends its signature woody taste, and a twist of orange rind, plus a couple maraschino cherries, give this cocktail a touch of zest and juicy sweetness.

This is the type of drink that should be sipped and not gulped, and it definitely has an air of sophistication. Or as my husband would say “pretension”.

I’ll mix up one of these cocktails when I want something to enjoy slowly, like over a multi-course dinner, or more often, curled up by the fireplace with a good book.

The robust and aromatic flavors of the Boulevardier are perfect to savor while the strong spirits spread warmth from the inside out!

Anyway, after you’ve passed the age of 25, you should have at least one classy cocktail in your drink rotation, right?

If you’re looking for a mixed drink that’s more tangy and bitter than syrupy sweet, this Americanized take on the Italian cocktail is sure to please.

Serve this cocktail on the rocks (stirred, not shaken) with an orange rind and a maraschino cherry, and you’ll have a sophisticated beverage to sip on cold winter nights.

If you love a classy cocktail, you might also enjoy this Aperol Negroni cocktail or this Brandy Manhattan!

How To Make A Boulevardier Cocktail:

This is a very simple cocktail to make, but it does require a little attention to detail, after all, a cocktail is all about the craft.

1. You’ll start with a short glass.
2. Then you’ll add the ice and pour the Campari, sweet vermouth, and whiskey in.
3. Next, you’ll give it a stir with a bar spoon, this drink should never be shaken.
4. You’ll drop a piece of orange rind into the drink, this is more than just a garnish, it’s an essential part of the cocktail and should not be skipped.
5. You may garnish with an additional orange rind and a maraschino cherry.

More Classic Cocktail Recipes:

• Strawberry Daiquiri
• Moscow Mule
• Hot Toddy
• French 75