Basil Hayden’s Bourbon Cocktail RecipeThe Spicy Brown Blinker

Basil Hayden’s remains one of my everyday “go to” bourbons when I’m in the mood for something light and spicy. And in the middle of summer that’s more often than not.

Knowing that many of you turn to bourbon cocktails when the weather gets hot, I thought I’d share with you a recipe that Basil Hayden’s sent my way a few weeks ago. This one is a twist on not one, but two, classic bourbon cocktails – the Blinker and the Brown Derby and is aptly named  the Basil Hayden’s Spicy Brown Blinker.

Louisville’s own Marie Zahn created this recipe especially for Basil Hayden’s. According to the brand,

“Marie was inspired to combine the cocktails, which are typically made with rye whiskey, because she knew that Basil Hayden Bourbon’s spicy finish and high rye content would create the perfect spin on an otherwise traditional bourbon libation! The cocktail combines our bourbon, tart grapefruit juice, honey syrup and raspberry vinegar to create a sweet and zesty classic cocktail twist that’s sure to be a crowd pleaser…”

I’m going to explore whipping up a few this weekend but would love to hear whether or not you found it to your liking. Make sure to come back and share your thoughts in the comments section. Cheers!

Basil Hayden’s® Spicy Brown Blinker

Created by Marie Zahn, Louisville, KY

Ingredients:

• 2 parts Basil Hayden¹s® Bourbon
• 1 teaspoon Honey Syrup
• 1 teaspoon Raspberry Vinegar
• Grapefruit Soda

Honey Syrup Ingredients:

• 1 cup Honey
• 1 cup Water

Honey Syrup Preparation:

1. In a small saucepan, heat the honey and water
2. Stir until fully incorporated, then let cool and refrigerate

Cocktail Preparation:

• Add Basil Hayden¹s® Bourbon, honey syrup and raspberry vinegar over ice in a Collins glass and stir
• Top with grapefruit soda
• Garnish with a grapefruit peel