Are you ready to elevate your cocktail game? Forget sugary mixers and artificial flavors; we're diving deep into the world of bourbon tasting with a focus on the smooth, complex notes of Four Roses Single Barrel Ten Year Old. This isn't just a recipe; it's an experience designed to highlight the subtle nuances of this exceptional bourbon. This delicious and easy recipe is perfect for a quiet evening in or an impressive addition to your next gathering. Prepare for a journey of flavor!
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Four Roses Single Barrel Ten Year Old Bourbon
- ¾ oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- ¾ oz Simple Syrup (recipe below)
- 2 Dashes Angostura Bitters
- Orange Twist, for garnish
Simple Syrup:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup water
Instructions:
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Prepare the Simple Syrup: Combine equal parts sugar and water in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Let cool completely before using. This homemade simple syrup is a game-changer – it adds a far superior depth of flavor compared to store-bought options.
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Chill Your Glass: Place your favorite rocks glass or coupe in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before serving. A chilled glass ensures your cocktail stays refreshingly cold for longer. This simple step dramatically improves the overall drinking experience.
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Combine Ingredients: In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine the Four Roses bourbon, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and Angostura bitters. Stir gently but thoroughly for about 20-30 seconds until well-chilled. This ensures proper dilution and a balanced cocktail.
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Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into your chilled glass filled with fresh ice.
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Garnish: Express the oils from an orange twist over the drink, then gently drop the twist into the glass.
Tips for the Perfect Four Roses Ten Cocktail:
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice is key to achieving the bright, citrusy notes that complement the bourbon beautifully. Avoid bottled juice for optimal flavor.
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Adjust to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of simple syrup and lemon juice to suit your preference. If you prefer a sweeter drink, add a little more syrup. For a tarter cocktail, add a bit more lemon juice.
Variations:
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Four Roses Ten Old Fashioned: Skip the lemon juice and simple syrup. Muddle a sugar cube with a few dashes of bitters and a splash of water in the glass. Add the bourbon and a large ice cube. Stir gently and garnish with an orange peel.
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Four Roses Ten Sour: Increase the lemon juice to 1 oz and reduce the simple syrup to ½ oz. This creates a more tart and tangy variation.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250 (depending on simple syrup quantity)
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
- Sugar: Approximately 10-15g
Please note that this is an estimate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This Four Roses Ten cocktail is a testament to the quality of the bourbon. It’s a sophisticated yet easy-to-make drink perfect for any occasion. Enjoy responsibly! Let us know in the comments how you enjoyed your tasting experience! We love to hear your feedback and see your creations. Happy sipping!