Introduction:
What is the best proof of bourbon for your bourbon cocktails? 90 proof bourbon? 100 proof bourbon? Cask Strength? There are many different kinds of cocktails you can make and each could be made with a different proof of bourbon. Why would you use one proof of bourbon over the others? Some of this comes down to personal choice and others come down to the complexity and flavor that you are trying to get out of the cocktail. 90 proof bourbon will be mild and more approachable in the flavor. Cask strength bourbon will have a much higher kick and the alcohol will come through the cocktail. 100 proof will have a balance between the 90 and cask strength where you will get the flavor of the bourbon as well as just enough alcohol coming through.
90 Proof Bourbon
Why should you choose 90 proof bourbon for your cocktail. This proof of bourbon is more mild both in alcohol and flavor. The proofing down adds distilled water which takes away from some of the flavor that the aging process imparted on to the bourbon. This makes it great for cocktails for first timers or a cocktail that has plenty of flavor from the other ingredients. Cocktails crafted with this proof will let the ingredients shine over the bourbon. Also at the lower proof the alcohol will not come through so the burn or alcohol taste will be very minimal. This allowing people who don’t like that taste to still enjoy a well crafted cocktail.
Some of the cocktails that would be perfect to use at this proof are:
- Bourbon Sour
- Bourbon Mule
- Mint Julep
Bourbons coming in at 90 Proof:
100 Proof Bourbon
Why you should choose the 100 proof bourbon for you crafted cocktails. This proof lets the flavor of the bourbon shine through with the cocktail. You will also start to taste some of the alcohol and get a small burn (Kentucky Hug) as you sip your cocktail. With this proof you will find ingredients that compliment the bourbon you are choosing for your cocktail. At this proof you are going to get bolder more robust flavors and more complexity into the cocktail. At this proof you let the bourbon be the star of the cocktail.
Some cocktails to craft at this proof:
- Bourbon Manhattan – pairs really well with the sweet vermouth
- Boulevardier – Richer bourbon twist on the Negroni
- Chocolate old Fashioned – pair a chocolate forward bourbon with the bitters and simple syrup for a great cocktail
Some bourbons at this proof:
Cask Strength:
Why should you choose a cask strength bourbon for your cocktails? You will get intense flavors with a high alcohol content to give the cocktail some burn. To use this level of proof you will need to be careful with the other ingredients that you add so they don’t get lost behind the bourbon and don’t overtake the bourbon as you choose this proof for a reason. These cocktails will be very bourbon forward and the other ingredients very complimentary of the bourbon. You will also want to be careful with the dilution of the bourbon within your cocktails. How much ice you add will decrease the proof and flavor.
Some of the cocktails that would be perfect to use at this proof are:
- Barrel Proof Old Fashioned – Bourbon flavor comes through and the bitters and simple syrup balance out the cocktail
- Bourbon Smash – Fresh fruit will balance the intensity of the bourbon
- Sazerac – with a splash of absinth and the Peychaud’s bitters make this a great cocktail for this proof.
Some bourbons at this proof:
Conclusion:
While all cocktails can be crafted with whatever proof you desire the 100 proof is my sweet spot. The bourbon flavor comes through in all the cocktails as well as just enough alcohol to let you know you are having a cocktail. You can add any ingredients you need, and the bourbon will still be the start of the show. Add too much ice or water to the bourbon will still hold up. Look for reviews of the cocktails at each proof to allow you to see more and make your own decision. Let me know what you think in the comments.
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