Big Batch Bourbon Cocktail Recipe

{Anthropologie Glassware | BB&B Mason Jar Drink Dispenser}

This cocktail is a special one, as it’s a bit famous (or should I say infamous?) amongst my family and friends. It’s been a catalyst for many a late/questionable night, as well as the signature drink for countless get-togethers and celebrations. This mix of citrusy, maple-y goodness coupled with sweet bourbon and a bit of spice makes this a great choice anytime of year, day or night (seriously, we may or may not have finished a carafe by noon before). Ladies and gentlemen, I give you… Luke’s Whiskey Cocktail.

Makes roughly 10-12 Bourbon cocktails.

Ingredients:

1 QT {or roughly half a 2 QT bottle} Spiced apple or pear cider (I’m partial to Trader Joe’s versions)
1 750 mL Bottle good-but-not-too-good Straight Bourbon (We like using Bulleit for this)
Juice of 10 or so lemons
2 16.9 Oz Bottles of something bubbly… I like to use a mix of sparkling water and Ginger Ale to keep the sweetness down, but lemon lime and/or club soda would work equally as well

Directions:

In a large drink dispenser or punch bowl carefully pour in your cider and Bourbon.
Squeeze the lemons into the mixture, careful not to get any seeds in the drink. We recommend deseeding the leftover juiced lemons and dropping them into the bowl/dispenser for color, aesthetic and extra lemon flavor.
10 minutes before guests arrive, add lots of ice and your desired effervescence.
Give it a quick stir with a long wooden spoon, pour and enjoy!

Extras:

I love an autumnal riff on this where we sub a quarter to half of the cider for rosemary maple simple syrup.
Leave a small bottle of bitters beside the cocktail so guests can add a dash or two for extra depth!
Sub half the lemons for grapefruits for a tart & summery, less-sweet version.