Bourbon Berry Blinker - A Twist on a Classic Cocktail
How Does Modern Compare?
The original Blinker recipe specifically stated no garnish. No Garnish? How boring. We love garnish. It is an expression of not only visual love for the cocktail’s presentation but also an aromatic one. The red pop of the strawberry with the fresh scent from the grapefruit citrus oils, and a hint of freshness from the mint, provide a lovely and modern presentation.
Bourbon Berry Blinker Pairings - What should I serve it with?
The Bourbon Berry Blinker is a versatile cocktail that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of dishes. Its fruity and tart flavors make it an ideal match for seafood, such as ceviche or oysters, as well as lighter fare like salads and grilled vegetables. The cocktail’s bright and refreshing taste also makes it a perfect choice for brunch or an afternoon soiree.
Bourbon Berry Blinker
Ingredients
- 2 oz. Wheat Penny 1958
- 1 oz. Grapefruit Juice
- 1/4 oz. Simple Syrup
- 1 bar spoon Strawberry Rhubarb Preserves
- Fresh strawberry and mint sprig for garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, bourbon, grapefruit juice, and simple syrup
- Add the Strawberry Rhubarb Preserves
- Fill the shaker with ice, covering the ingredients.
- Shake the mixture vigorously for 10-15 seconds to chill
- Strain the cocktail into it using a cocktail strainer.
- Garnish with a strawberry, a grapefruit twist and a sprig of mint
When it comes to coming up with the next cocktail, we often look to the past for inspiration. Such is the case with the Bourbon Berry Blinker, a modern take on the classic Blinker cocktail that was first published in 1934 by Patrick Gavin Duffy. We softened it up with the slightly sweeter and smoky flavor of Wheat Penny 1958, a wheated bourbon finished with Black Cherry and Toasted Oak wood, with the tartness of grapefruit juice and the sweetness of strawberry rhubarb preserves. The result? A fruity and delightful drink both in flavor and presentation.
This creative twist on the classic Blinker cocktail showcases the unique character of Wheat Penny 1958, a wheat-based bourbon that is known for its smooth, rounded flavors. The bourbon’s sweetness is balanced by the tartness of the grapefruit juice, while the strawberry rhubarb preserves add a layer of fruity complexity. The simple syrup gives the cocktail just the right amount of sweetness, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy a balanced and flavorful drink.