Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic11.3% ABV4 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderateshaken drink
Why: 4 ingredients, shaken drink, requires shaker
Best for: BBQ, Chocolate, Seafood Dinner
Ingredients & Tools
BaseCitrusSweetener
- 2.0 ozBourbon WhiskeyBase
- 2.0 ozFresh Lemon JuiceCitrus
- 2.0 ozGrapefruit JuiceCitrus
- 2.0 ozOrgeat SyrupSweetener
Tools:shaker
How to Make It
ShakeGarnish
- Shake with ice in mixing glass.ShakeShaking chills, dilutes and adds texture.
- Pour with ice into old-fashioned glass.
- Garnish with peach.GarnishGarnish changes aroma, presentation or final flavour impression.
Best For
Food Pairings
Diet & Lifestyle
Gluten-FreeVeganVegetarian
Make it your way
Adjust this drink
Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the sugarCompare with drinks that use less estimated sugar per serve.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.
Swap notes
Base spiritBourbon is sweeter with vanilla and caramel; rye is spicier and drier; Scotch adds smoke and malt. Each changes the character significantly — stay within the same family where possible.CitrusLime can replace lemon juice in a pinch but it tastes more floral and slightly sweeter, so the drink will taste different. Reduce any syrup by a small amount if swapping. Orange juice is a softer, less acidic option — use it when you want a rounder, less sharp result.SweetenerSimple syrup is neutral; honey adds floral warmth; agave is lighter and less cloying; grenadine adds pomegranate colour and fruit sweetness. Sweeteners vary in intensity — start with less than you think you need, then taste. Always rebalance with a little citrus if the drink feels flat after swapping.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a Bourbon Cooler?
- The Bourbon Cooler is a cocktail made with 4 ingredients, traditionally served in a Old-Fashioned Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 11.3%. A standard serving contains approximately 361 calories.
- What does a Bourbon Cooler taste like?
- Bourbon Cooler has a flavour profile featuring Citrus, Tart, Almond, Grapefruit. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a Bourbon Cooler?
- Bourbon Cooler pairs well with BBQ, Chocolate, Steak. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a Bourbon Cooler?
- The Bourbon Cooler has an ABV of approximately 11.3%. That's approximately 1.50 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 361 calories, 44.1g sugar, 50.9g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a Bourbon Cooler typically served?
- Bourbon Cooler is a popular choice for Seafood Dinner, Summer. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a Bourbon Cooler?
- If you enjoy Bourbon Cooler, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
- Can I make a Bourbon Cooler at home?
- Yes. The Bourbon Cooler uses 4 ingredients, making it straightforward to prepare at home. You will need a Old-Fashioned Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
- How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
- Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of Bourbon Cooler with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.