The difference between a Boulevardier and a Left Hand drink lies in their ingredients and proportions, resulting in distinct flavor profiles. While both are variations of the classic Negroni, they each have their own unique characteristics.
1. Ingredients:
– Boulevardier: The Boulevardier is typically made with bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari. The bourbon adds a rich and slightly sweet flavor profile, complementing the bitterness of the Campari and the herbal notes of the sweet vermouth.
– Left Hand drink: The Left Hand drink, on the other hand, replaces the Campari with a creamy ingredient such as heavy cream or milk. This substitution creates a creamy and smooth texture, bringing a different dimension to the drink.
2. Proportions:
– Boulevardier: The Boulevardier usually follows a 1:1:1 ratio of bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari. This equal balance allows the flavors to blend harmoniously, with the bourbon still being the dominant spirit.
– Left Hand drink: The proportions of a Left Hand drink vary depending on the recipe, but typically it calls for a larger amount of bourbon compared to the other ingredients. This shift in proportions emphasizes the bourbon's presence and balances it with the creaminess, resulting in a more indulgent and decadent cocktail.
3. Flavor Profile:
– Boulevardier: The Boulevardier's combination of bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari creates a complex and well-balanced drink. The bourbon brings warmth and depth, the sweet vermouth adds a touch of sweetness and herbal notes, while the Campari contributes a bitter and citrusy element. The addition of chocolate bitters enhances the overall flavor profile, adding subtle hints of cocoa and spices.
– Left Hand drink: The Left Hand drink takes a departure from the classic bitter and herbal flavors of the Boulevardier. Instead, it offers a creamier and smoother experience. The bourbon remains the star, but it is complemented by the richness of the cream or milk. This creates a velvety mouthfeel and a more dessert-like quality.
Personal Experience:
I have had the pleasure of trying both the Boulevardier and the Left Hand drink on various occasions. The Boulevardier is a go-to cocktail for me when I'm in the mood for a well-balanced and sophisticated drink. The combination of bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari creates a delightful interplay of flavors that I find incredibly satisfying.
On the other hand, the Left Hand drink is a treat for when I want something indulgent and creamy. The addition of cream or milk adds a luxurious texture to the drink, making it feel almost like a dessert in a glass. It's a great choice for those with a sweet tooth or for special occasions when you want to pamper yourself.
The difference between a Boulevardier and a Left Hand drink lies in their ingredients, proportions, and flavor profiles. The Boulevardier showcases the classic bitter and herbal notes of a Negroni, while the Left Hand drink offers a creamier and more indulgent experience. Both are fantastic variations of the Negroni, catering to different preferences and moods.