The Most Popular Whiskey & Bourbon Drinks You Need to Try

At Bacon-n-Bourbon, we believe that whiskey and bourbon aren’t just drinks—they’re an experience. Whether you prefer it neat, on the rocks, or mixed into a killer cocktail, there’s something magical about the way these spirits bring out deep, complex flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey lover or a casual sipper looking to explore, here’s a list of the most popular whiskey and bourbon drinks you need to try.

Classic Whiskey Cocktails

1. Old Fashioned

📌 Ingredients: Bourbon, sugar cube, Angostura bitters, orange twist
The Old Fashioned is a timeless drink that lets the rich, caramel notes of bourbon shine. Stirred over ice and garnished with an orange peel, this drink is bold, simple, and full of character.

2. Manhattan

📌 Ingredients: Rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, Angostura bitters, cherry
This cocktail blends rye whiskey’s spice with sweet vermouth’s herbal depth, creating a smooth, sophisticated drink perfect for whiskey enthusiasts.

3. Whiskey Sour

📌 Ingredients: Bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, egg white (optional)
A mix of sweet, tart, and smooth, the Whiskey Sour is a go-to for those who love balance in their cocktails. Add an egg white for a velvety texture that elevates the drink to another level.

4. Mint Julep

📌 Ingredients: Bourbon, fresh mint, simple syrup, crushed ice
A Southern classic that screams warm-weather indulgence, the Mint Julep is a must-try for bourbon lovers. Served in a frosty metal cup, it’s refreshing, slightly sweet, and incredibly smooth.

5. Boulevardier

📌 Ingredients: Bourbon or rye whiskey, Campari, sweet vermouth
Think of the Boulevardier as the whiskey version of a Negroni—rich, bitter, and perfectly balanced with whiskey’s warmth.

6. Sazerac

📌 Ingredients: Rye whiskey, sugar cube, Peychaud’s bitters, absinthe rinse, lemon peel
A New Orleans favorite, the Sazerac is a bold, herbal whiskey drink with a smooth yet potent finish.

Modern Bourbon & Whiskey Twists

7. Smoked Maple Bourbon Sour

📌 Ingredients: Bourbon, lemon juice, maple syrup, smoked bitters
A fall-inspired twist on the classic Whiskey Sour, this drink combines smoky, sweet, and tart flavors with a rich maple backbone.

8. Kentucky Mule

📌 Ingredients: Bourbon, ginger beer, lime juice
A bourbon take on the Moscow Mule, this drink is crisp, refreshing, and a perfect way to enjoy bourbon on a hot day.

9. Gold Rush

📌 Ingredients: Bourbon, honey syrup, lemon juice
A simple yet flavorful drink, the Gold Rush is like a whiskey sour but with honey replacing sugar for a richer, smoother taste.

10. Paper Plane

📌 Ingredients: Bourbon, Aperol, Amaro Nonino, lemon juice
A modern favorite, the Paper Plane is a bittersweet, citrusy cocktail with a complex, layered taste.

Whiskey & Bourbon Drinks for the Purist

11. Bourbon Neat

📌 Ingredients: Just bourbon
Sometimes, the best way to enjoy bourbon is as it is—no mixers, just pure, unfiltered flavor.

12. Whiskey on the Rocks

📌 Ingredients: Whiskey, large ice cube
A single ice cube chills and slightly dilutes whiskey, opening up its flavors while keeping it strong.

13. Bourbon & Water (The Kentucky Chew)

📌 Ingredients: Bourbon, a splash of water
A few drops of water can enhance the aromas and flavors in bourbon, making it a common way to enjoy high-proof whiskey.

14. Highball

📌 Ingredients: Whiskey, soda water, lemon
This simple, refreshing drink is whiskey’s answer to a light, easygoing cocktail.

Whiskey & Bourbon for Dessert Lovers

15. Irish Coffee

📌 Ingredients: Irish whiskey, hot coffee, brown sugar, whipped cream
For those who love whiskey with their caffeine, Irish Coffee is the ultimate after-dinner treat.

16. Bourbon Milk Punch

📌 Ingredients: Bourbon, milk, vanilla, simple syrup, nutmeg
A creamy, boozy cocktail that’s like a spiked vanilla milkshake for grown-ups.

17. Chocolate Bourbon Martini

📌 Ingredients: Bourbon, crème de cacao, coffee liqueur, cream
Rich, smooth, and perfect for those who love a little indulgence with their whiskey.

Final Thoughts

Whiskey and bourbon offer a world of possibilities, from bold and smoky classics to refreshing and modern twists. At Bacon-n-Bourbon, we love experimenting with these spirits, infusing them into our BBQ sauces, cocktails, and even desserts. Whether you’re sipping on an Old Fashioned or enjoying a smoked bourbon sour, there’s always a whiskey drink for every occasion.

Want to try our signature whiskey cocktails? Keep an eye out for our next event, pop-up, or catering menu!

Cheers! 🥃
Jeremy & Jennifer
Bacon-n-Bourbon