The cousin of the Negroni is none other than the Boulevardier cocktail. This delightful concoction is a slight twist on the classic Negroni, with one key substitution – bourbon in place of gin. The result is a rich and robust cocktail that is perfect for those who prefer the smoothness and depth of flavor that bourbon brings to the table.
The history of the Boulevardier can be traced back to the 1920s, and it is credited to a man named Erskine Gwynne, an American socialite with ties to the Vanderbilt family. Gwynne was an expatriate living in Paris at the time, and he founded a literary magazine called “The Boulevardier,” hence the name of the cocktail.
The Boulevardier has gained popularity in recent years as the craft cocktail movement has seen a resurgence. It offers a unique and enticing alternative to the Negroni, with its bold flavors and smooth finish.
To make a Boulevardier, you will need three key ingredients – bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari. The classic recipe calls for equal parts of each, typically 1 ounce of each ingredient. However, feel free to adjust the proportions to suit your personal taste preferences.
The first step is to fill a mixing glass with ice. Add the bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari to the glass. Stir gently with a bar spoon for about 20-30 seconds to chill and dilute the cocktail slightly. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass or over fresh ice in a rocks glass. Garnish with a twist of orange peel, if desired.
The Boulevardier is a cocktail that truly showcases the complexity and depth of bourbon. The sweetness of the vermouth and the bitterness of the Campari create a perfect balance, allowing the bourbon to shine through without overpowering the other flavors. The result is a cocktail that is simultaneously bold and smooth, with a lingering warmth that is sure to please bourbon enthusiasts.
I have had the pleasure of enjoying a Boulevardier on several occasions, and each time I am reminded of why it has become such a beloved cocktail. The combination of flavors is simply exquisite, and it is a drink that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of foods.
Whether you are a fan of the classic Negroni or are simply looking for a new cocktail to add to your repertoire, I highly recommend giving the Boulevardier a try. Its unique combination of bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. So, raise a glass and toast to the Boulevardier – the cousin of the Negroni that has carved out its own place in cocktail history.