As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of experimenting with various spirits and mixers to create unique and enjoyable combinations. When it comes to Elijah Craig, a popular bourbon whiskey, there are several fantastic options for mixing that can elevate your drinking experience.
1. Classic Old Fashioned: One of the most iconic bourbon cocktails, the Old Fashioned is a timeless choice for Elijah Craig. Start by muddling a sugar cube with a few dashes of Angostura bitters in a glass. Add a splash of water and stir until the sugar has dissolved. Then, pour in a generous amount of Elijah Craig bourbon and add ice. Garnish with an orange twist or a cherry, and enjoy the rich and balanced flavors of this classic cocktail.
2. Whiskey Sour: For a refreshing and tart option, mix Elijah Craig with fresh lemon juice and simple syrup to create a Whiskey Sour. In a shaker filled with ice, combine 2 ounces of bourbon, 1 ounce of lemon juice, and ½ ounce of simple syrup. Shake well and strain into a chilled glass filled with ice. Garnish with a lemon wedge or a cherry, and savor the sweet and citrusy notes of this delightful drink.
3. Boulevardier: If you're a fan of Negronis and enjoy the bitter complexity they offer, try making a Boulevardier with Elijah Craig. In a mixing glass, combine 1 ½ ounces of bourbon, 1 ounce of sweet vermouth, and 1 ounce of Campari. Stir well with ice and strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish with an orange twist, and experience the robust and slightly bitter flavors of this sophisticated cocktail.
4. Ginger Ale or Ginger Beer: For a simple yet refreshing option, Elijah Craig pairs beautifully with ginger ale or ginger beer. Fill a glass with ice and pour in 2 ounces of bourbon. Top it off with your choice of ginger ale or ginger beer, and give it a gentle stir. Squeeze in a wedge of lime or garnish with a lime wheel for an added citrus twist. The spicy and warming notes of ginger complement the smoothness of Elijah Craig, creating a delightful combination.
5. Coffee-infused Cocktails: If you're a coffee lover, consider infusing Elijah Craig with coffee to create unique cocktails. Simply combine bourbon and coffee beans in a sealed container and let it sit for a few days to allow the flavors to meld together. Once infused, you can use this coffee-infused bourbon in various cocktails like an Espresso Martini or a Coffee Old Fashioned. The rich and earthy undertones of the coffee will add depth and complexity to your drink.
Remember, the beauty of mixing cocktails is that you can always experiment and personalize them to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to adjust the ratios, add different mixers or garnishes, and explore new combinations. The key is to have fun and enjoy the process of discovering your own favorite mix with Elijah Craig. Cheers!