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Rosemary Bourbon Cocktail

By: Author Tiana Thompson

Posted on Last updated:

Categories Cocktails, Recipes

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If cocktails were seasons, the Rosemary Bourbon Cocktail would be a crisp autumn evening wrapped in your favorite blanket.

This drink is the perfect marriage of the deep, caramel notes of bourbon and the earthy, aromatic touch of rosemary. It’s classy, yet rustic—a cocktail that can easily elevate any gathering, whether it’s a sophisticated dinner party or a cozy night in.

Personally, I love how it strikes that balance between bold and smooth, with just enough herbal flair to make it memorable. It’s like the cocktail equivalent of a sweater weather playlist: comforting, a little fancy, and undeniably satisfying.

Ready to learn how to make your new favorite drink? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up the perfect Rosemary Bourbon Cocktail:

  • 2 oz bourbon
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice
  • ¾ oz rosemary simple syrup
  • Ice (for shaking and serving)
  • Club soda or sparkling water (optional, for a lighter twist)
  • Fresh rosemary sprig (for garnish)
  • Lemon twist or wedge (optional garnish)

Ingredient Breakdown: Why These Work Together

Bourbon (2 oz)
The star of the show! Bourbon’s rich, oaky flavor brings depth and warmth to the cocktail. Opt for a mid-range bourbon—you don’t need to splurge on top-shelf, but quality matters here. Think Maker’s Mark or Woodford Reserve for a smooth, caramel-forward taste.

Fresh Lemon Juice (1 oz)
The zingy acidity of lemon juice balances the sweetness of the bourbon and rosemary syrup. Freshly squeezed is non-negotiable—bottled lemon juice just won’t give you that bright, citrusy pop.

Rosemary Simple Syrup (¾ oz)
This is where the magic happens. Rosemary’s herbaceous, pine-like flavor adds sophistication and intrigue. Making your own simple syrup is a breeze (don’t worry, I’ll show you how), and the result is worth the tiny bit of effort.

Ice
Often overlooked but crucial, ice ensures your cocktail is properly chilled and diluted. Use clear, fresh-tasting ice for the best results.

Club Soda or Sparkling Water (optional)
If you prefer a lighter, more refreshing version of this cocktail, a splash of soda can work wonders. It adds effervescence and cuts through the richness.

Garnishes: Fresh Rosemary and Lemon Twist
Garnishes aren’t just for looks—they enhance the aroma and flavor of the cocktail. The rosemary sprig offers a fragrant herbal touch, while the lemon twist adds a burst of citrus oils.

How to Make a Rosemary Bourbon Cocktail

Step 1: Make the Rosemary Simple Syrup

Start by preparing the rosemary simple syrup, as this is the heart of your cocktail’s flavor profile. Here’s how:

  1. Combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of sugar, and 3-4 sprigs of fresh rosemary in a small saucepan.
  2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar fully dissolves.
  3. Let the syrup simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, then remove it from the heat.
  4. Allow the rosemary to steep in the syrup as it cools for about 20 minutes for maximum flavor.
  5. Strain the syrup into a clean jar or bottle, discarding the rosemary sprigs. Store it in the fridge—it’ll keep for up to two weeks.

Pro Tip: Double the batch and use the extra syrup for other cocktails, tea, or even drizzled over desserts.

Step 2: Assemble the Cocktail

Once your simple syrup is ready, it’s time to put everything together:

  1. Fill a shaker with ice.
    A well-chilled shaker is your best friend for a perfectly blended cocktail.
  2. Add the bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and rosemary simple syrup.
    Measure each ingredient carefully to maintain balance. It’s a cocktail, not a free-for-all!
  3. Shake it like you mean it.
    Give the shaker a vigorous shake for about 15 seconds. This chills the drink and dilutes it slightly for a smooth, balanced flavor.
  4. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
    A fine-mesh strainer will catch any small ice shards, ensuring a sleek presentation.
  5. Optional: Add a splash of club soda.
    If you’re in the mood for a lighter drink, a splash of soda or sparkling water adds a refreshing twist.

Step 3: Garnish Like a Pro

The final touches can make or break a cocktail’s presentation and flavor:

  • Add a fresh rosemary sprig to the glass. For an extra aromatic kick, lightly smack the sprig between your palms before adding it—this releases the oils.
  • If you’re feeling fancy, include a lemon twist or wedge for a pop of color and citrusy brightness.

Tips for the Best Rosemary Bourbon Cocktail

  1. Choose Your Glassware Wisely
    A rocks glass works perfectly for this cocktail, but if you want to feel extra sophisticated, serve it in a coupe glass.
  2. Experiment with Proportions
    Not a fan of super-strong cocktails? Adjust the bourbon and syrup ratio to suit your taste.
  3. Try Smoked Rosemary
    For an added touch of drama, lightly char the rosemary garnish with a kitchen torch or match before adding it to the drink. The smoky aroma pairs beautifully with the bourbon.
  4. Make It a Batch Cocktail
    Hosting a party? Scale up the ingredients and mix them in a pitcher. Shake individual servings with ice as needed to keep things fresh.

Rosemary Bourbon Cocktail Recipe

Rosemary Bourbon Cocktail

The Rosemary Bourbon Cocktail is a sophisticated blend of rich bourbon, earthy rosemary, and zesty lemon. Perfect for cozy nights or elegant gatherings, this drink combines bold flavors with a smooth finish. Garnished with fresh rosemary and lemon, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Drinks
Servings 1
Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 oz bourbon
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice
  • ¾ oz rosemary simple syrup
  • Ice for shaking and serving
  • Club soda or sparkling water optional
  • Fresh rosemary sprig for garnish
  • Lemon twist or wedge optional garnish

Instructions
 

  • Combine 1 cup water, 1 cup sugar, and 3-4 fresh rosemary sprigs in a small saucepan.
  • Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
  • Simmer for 2-3 minutes, remove from heat, and let steep for 20 minutes.
  • Strain and store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
  • Fill a shaker with ice.
  • Add bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and rosemary simple syrup.
  • Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to chill and combine.
  • Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
  • For a lighter drink, add a splash of club soda or sparkling water.
  • Add a fresh rosemary sprig and a lemon twist or wedge for garnish. Lightly smack the rosemary sprig between your palms before placing it to release its aroma.
  • Enjoy!

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