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Seelbach
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.4 / 5
The Seelbach cocktail is a sophisticated and effervescent blend dating back to the pre-Prohibition era, originating from the Seelbach Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky. A concoction of bourbon and triple sec serves as the warm, citrusy base of the drink, while the substantial amount of Champagne adds vivacity with its sparkling crispness. The dashes of Angostura and Peychaud's bitters impart a complex aromatic profile, adding depth with their spice and slight floral notes. The layers of flavors create an elegant balance between the sweetness, the smooth warmth of the spirits, and the sparkle of the Champagne. Traditionally served in a Champagne glass, this cocktail is garnished with an orange peel twist to enhance its aromatic presence, making it an opulent choice for celebrations or as a sophisticated starter to an evening.
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Cocktail Of The Day
100 Cocktails To Try Before You Die (Part 2)
Base ingredient
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Bourbon
Calories
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123 calories
Garnish
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Orange
Alcohol content
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19% | 3.42 units *

Tags

Bourbon ingredient icon
Bourbon cocktails
Peychaud's Aromatic Bitters ingredient icon
Top ten Peychaud's Aromatic Bitters cocktails

Champagne glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Triple Sec cocktail ingredient icon for the Seelbach cocktail
Triple Sec
Champagne / prosecco cocktail ingredient icon for the Seelbach cocktail
Champagne / prosecco
Angostura Bitters cocktail ingredient icon for the Seelbach cocktail
Angostura Bitters
Bourbon cocktail ingredient icon for the Seelbach cocktail
Bourbon
Peychaud's Aromatic Bitters cocktail ingredient icon for the Seelbach cocktail
Peychaud's Aromatic Bitters
Serves:
-
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

4/5

The Seelbach cocktail dazzles with a deep dive into history, merging bourbon's rich warmth and triple sec's crisp citrus notes in a dance of Prohibition-era elegance. The splash of champagne injects a playful fizz, perfectly balancing the herbal undertones from dashes of Angostura and Peychaud's bitters, creating a layered and luxuriously complex sip that's both spirited and sophisticated.

Method
How to make a Seelbach

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Add all the ingredients to a chilled champagne flute before topping up with the champagne
Garnish with an orange peel twist and serve

Power tips
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Pre-chill your Champagne flute to keep the cocktail colder for longer and enhance the overall drinking experience.
Adjust the amount of bitters depending on your preference. More bitters will add complexity and a more pronounced herbal finish.
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Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Garnish  ·  Twist  · 

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FAQ's

Origins history icon

What is the origin of the Seelbach cocktail?

The Seelbach cocktail originates from the Seelbach Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky. It was reportedly created by accident in 1917 when a bartender mistakenly added Champagne to a bourbon cocktail. The result was so successful that it became a signature drink of the hotel.

Ingredient substitutions icon

Can I use a different type of bitters if I don't have Peychaud's or Angostura?

While Peychaud's and Angostura Bitters are traditional and recommended for the authentic Seelbach taste, you can certainly experiment with other types of bitters. The flavor profile will change, but you might discover a variation that you personally enjoy.

Non alcoholic variations icon

Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Seelbach cocktail?

Yes, to create a non-alcoholic version of the Seelbach, you can substitute the bourbon with a non-alcoholic bourbon alternative and replace the Champagne with a non-alcoholic sparkling wine or sparkling cider. Use non-alcoholic bitters or a bitters-flavored syrup to maintain some of the complexity of the original drink.

Food pairings icon

What food pairings work well with the Seelbach cocktail?

The Seelbach, with its bubbly and bittersweet profile, pairs well with appetizers and light bites such as shrimp cocktail, smoked salmon, charcuterie boards, or a cheese platter. Its effervescence and acidity can cut through rich, fatty foods, making it an excellent choice for the start of a meal.

Alcohol content comparison icon

How significant is the alcohol content in the Seelbach cocktail, and how does it compare to other cocktails?

The Seelbach cocktail has an alcohol content of approximately 19%, which places it on the higher end of the spectrum compared to many other cocktails. This relatively high alcohol content is due to the combination of bourbon and Champagne. It's stronger than most wine and beer options but similar or slightly higher than many classic cocktails, making it a potent choice for those who enjoy a stronger drink.

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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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