Boulevardier
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Boulevardier
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.9 / 5
The Boulevardier is a classic and sophisticated cocktail with a perfect balance between sweet and bitter. It's a close relative to the Negroni, but uses bourbon as its base spirit instead, complementing the bitter Campari and sweet red vermouth. This exchange creates a richer, more rounded profile that's particularly appealing to whiskey enthusiasts. Hailing from the early 20th century, the cocktail owes its name to the expatriate American writer Erskine Gwynne, who founded a monthly magazine in Paris called "The Boulevardier." It typically features a deep red hue and is garnished with an orange wedge, adding a citrusy aroma that enhances its complex flavors. The Boulevardier is enjoyed for its boldness and is often sipped as an aperitif.
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Microbadges

Cocktail Of The Day
100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die (Part 2)
Base ingredient
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Campari
Calories
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170 calories
Garnish
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Orange
Alcohol content
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29.71% | 3.12 units *

Tags

tag icon
Christmas cocktail
Campari ingredient icon
Campari cocktails
Red vermouth ingredient icon
Top ten Red vermouth cocktails
Bourbon ingredient icon
Top ten Bourbon cocktails
Campari ingredient icon
Top ten Campari cocktails

Cocktail glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Campari cocktail ingredient icon for the Boulevardier cocktail
Campari
Red vermouth cocktail ingredient icon for the Boulevardier cocktail
Red vermouth
Bourbon cocktail ingredient icon for the Boulevardier cocktail
Bourbon
Serves:
-
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

5/5

Boulevardier is a robust cocktail that splendidly balances the richness of bourbon with the sweet vermouth and bitter Campari. This deep and complex trio provides a sophisticated experience, suited for those who appreciate a bitter edge in their beverages.

Method
How to make a Boulevardier

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Pour all ingredients into a shaker with ice
Shake well and strain into chilled cocktail glass
Garnish with an orange wedge and serve

Power tips
Elevate the Boulevardier with these master mixologist tips

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Use a high-quality, higher-proof bourbon to enhance the flavor complexity. The stronger bourbon will stand up better to the bitter and sweet components of the cocktail.
Chill your cocktail glass thoroughly before pouring the Boulevardier in. This ensures that the cocktail remains cold and refreshing right through to the last sip.
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Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Shake  ·  Strain  ·  Garnish  · 

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FAQ's

Origins history icon

What is the origin of the Boulevardier cocktail?

The Boulevardier cocktail has its roots in the 1920s Paris. It was first created by Erskine Gwynne, an American-born writer who founded a monthly magazine in Paris named 'Boulevardier', which catered to the expatriate community. The cocktail is often considered a cousin to the Negroni, using bourbon instead of gin.

Preparation techniques icon

Is the Boulevardier cocktail shaken or stirred?

The Boulevardier cocktail is traditionally stirred, not shaken. Stirring is preferred for this cocktail to ensure a smooth, clear appearance without the aerated texture that shaking can introduce. It's also a method used for cocktails that are composed entirely of spirits.

Serving suggestions icon

What is the best glass to serve a Boulevardier in?

A Boulevardier is typically served in a cocktail glass, also known as a coupe or martini glass. This helps to showcase the cocktail's color and makes it easy to enjoy its aroma and flavors.

Ingredient substitutions icon

Can I substitute the bourbon in a Boulevardier with another whiskey?

Yes, while bourbon is the traditional choice for a Boulevardier, you can substitute it with another type of whiskey like rye for a spicier profile or a Scotch for a smokier note. Each type of whiskey will bring its unique flavor, so the substitution allows for personal preference.

Alcohol content comparison icon

How does the alcohol content of a Boulevardier compare to other classic cocktails?

The Boulevardier has an alcohol content of approximately 29.71%, which places it in the higher range of alcohol content among classic cocktails. For context, a classic Negroni, with which the Boulevardier shares similarities, has a slightly lower alcohol content due to the gin's generally lower ABV compared to bourbon.

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* US units estimated based on the standard alcohol content of the ingredients used and the proportions in the recipe. Please drink responsibly.
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