This Gold Rush Cocktail is a modern classic, with simple ingredients like smooth bourbon, silky honey, orange juice, Angostura bitters, and garnished with fresh rosemary.
Add all the ingredients for the cocktail and shake for 30 seconds.
Strain the cocktail into a glass and garnish with extra rosemary sprigs and depredated orange slices.
Notes
Bourbon Choice: Select a bourbon that you enjoy, as it will significantly influence the flavor of the cocktail. A smooth and well-balanced bourbon works best for this recipe.
Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of honey according to your preference for sweetness. You can start with 3 teaspoons and add more if desired.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice is ideal for the freshest flavor, but you can also use store-bought orange juice if needed.
Rosemary Flavor: Gently crush or muddle one of the rosemary sprigs before adding it to the shaker. This helps release the aromatic oils and enhances the rosemary flavor.
Shaking Technique: When shaking the cocktail, use a firm but controlled motion. Shaking for about 30 seconds helps chill the ingredients and properly mix the flavors.
Straining: Use a cocktail strainer to pour the mixture into a glass without any ice or herbs from the shaker.
Garnish: Garnish the cocktail with a fresh rosemary sprig and a dehydrated orange slice. This adds visual appeal and an extra layer of aroma.
Glassware: Serve the cocktail in a rocks glass or a lowball glass. These types of glasses work well for drinks served over ice.
Ice: Consider using a large ice cube or ice sphere for slower dilution and less watering down of the cocktail.
Presentation: The rosemary sprig and dehydrated orange slice not only enhance the cocktail's appearance but also contribute to the overall sensory experience.
Bitters: The Angostura bitters add depth and complexity to the cocktail. Adjust the number of dashes to your taste preference.
Experimentation: Feel free to experiment with the ingredients to find your perfect balance of flavors. You might want to try different types of honey, bourbon brands, or even add a splash of citrus or soda water for a slightly different twist.
Batch Preparation: You can easily scale up the recipe and make multiple servings for a gathering. Just multiply the ingredients accordingly and mix them in a larger shaker or pitcher.