The Kentucky buck is a delightful cocktail that originated in the United States, specifically in the state of Kentucky. Its creation is credited to the talented San Diego bartender, Erick Castro, who crafted this unique concoction at Polite Provisions.
Erick Castro's inspiration for the Kentucky buck came from his love for classic cocktails and his desire to put a modern twist on them. He wanted to create a drink that showcased the flavors of Kentucky, a state renowned for its bourbon production. Thus, the Kentucky buck was born.
The name “buck” refers to a type of cocktail that typically includes ginger beer or ginger ale as one of its main ingredients. In the case of the Kentucky buck, Castro decided to use ginger beer to add a refreshing and spicy kick to the drink.
One of the key components of the Kentucky buck is, of course, bourbon. As a sommelier and brewer, I can appreciate the complexity and depth of flavors that bourbon brings to a cocktail. It is a type of whiskey that is primarily made from corn and aged in charred oak barrels. The rich and smooth taste of bourbon pairs perfectly with the other ingredients in the Kentucky buck.
To balance out the boldness of the bourbon, Castro added fresh lime juice to the mix. The lime juice adds a tangy and citrusy element to the cocktail, which helps to brighten and enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.
Another essential component of the Kentucky buck is the use of fresh strawberries. Strawberries are a quintessential summer fruit, bursting with sweetness and juiciness. By muddling fresh strawberries into the cocktail, Castro was able to incorporate their natural flavors into the drink, resulting in a delightful fruity twist.
To bring all the flavors together, Castro added a touch of simple syrup, which is made by dissolving sugar in water. The simple syrup helps to balance the sweetness of the strawberries and adds a touch of sweetness to the cocktail without overpowering it.
The final touch to the Kentucky buck is a garnish of fresh mint leaves. Mint is a classic herb used in many cocktails for its refreshing and aromatic qualities. The mint leaves not only add a pop of color to the drink but also provide a delightful fragrance that complements the other flavors.
When serving the Kentucky buck, it is traditionally served over ice in a Collins glass. The combination of the bourbon, strawberries, lime juice, ginger beer, and mint creates a visually appealing and delicious cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a warm summer day.
The Kentucky buck is a cocktail that was created by Erick Castro at Polite Provisions in San Diego. It is a modern twist on classic cocktails, showcasing the flavors of Kentucky through the use of bourbon. The combination of bourbon, strawberries, lime juice, ginger beer, and mint creates a refreshing and flavorful drink that is sure to impress.