Kentucky Buck

A fruity, effervescent twist on bourbon. The Kentucky Buck blends the warmth of whiskey with the tartness of fresh lemon, the sweetness of strawberries, and the kick of ginger beer, creating a refreshing and flavorful drink.

Equipment

You’ll need some basic bar equipment to get started.

Cocktail shaker: Perfect for mixing the ingredients.
Muddler: Essential for muddling the strawberry.
Jigger: For precise measurements of your ingredients.
Strainer: To pour your cocktail without any solid bits.
Highball glass: Ideal for serving the Kentucky Buck.

Having these tools ready will ensure you can prepare the cocktail efficiently and with ease.

Ingredients

Ensure you have the following ingredients ready:

2 oz bourbon: Choose high-end or affordable.
1 medium strawberry: Hulled and roughly chopped.
2 oz ginger beer: Either bottled or homemade.
0.5 oz simple syrup: Provides sweetness.
0.75 oz lemon juice: For a citrus kick.
2 dashes Angostura bitters: Adds complexity.

These ingredients combine to deliver the signature taste of the Kentucky Buck.

Instructions

Follow these steps to craft your Kentucky Buck:

Muddle the strawberry with simple syrup in a shaker.
Add bourbon, lemon juice, and Angostura bitters.
Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
Strain into a highball glass filled with ice.
Top the glass with ginger beer.
Garnish with a lemon slice or additional strawberry if desired.

These steps will help you achieve the ideal flavor and presentation.

Tasting Notes

The Kentucky Buck is fruity yet robust.

You’ll notice the warmth of bourbon balanced by the sweetness of strawberries and simple syrup. The lemon juice adds a refreshing tartness, while ginger beer introduces a spicy finish. The bitters bring depth, offering a nuanced tasting experience.

The harmonious blend makes it a delightful, well-rounded cocktail.

Quick Pro Tips

These tips will enhance your cocktail-making.

Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor.
Experiment with different bourbons to find your ideal taste.
Homemade ginger beer can elevate the drink.
Always serve freshly made to ensure the right balance of flavors.
Chill your highball glass beforehand for an extra refreshing experience.

Master these tips to impress with a flawless Kentucky Buck.

When to Serve

The Kentucky Buck is perfect for many occasions.

It’s a great choice for summer gatherings or casual get-togethers, thanks to its refreshing attributes. Consider serving it at BBQs or picnics. Its light, invigorating quality also makes it an excellent option for brunches or informal celebrations.

This cocktail is versatile, fitting various social settings effortlessly.