HAND CRAFTED  Bourbon cocktail recipes

As delicious as it is effervescent, even the experienced mixologist will find this easy-to-make classic hard to pass up. The origins of this simple mix trace back to 1890 when a nonalcoholic drink called the Horse's Neck was made with ginger ale, ice and lemon peel. By 1910, bourbon was added to make a Stiff Horse's Neck – later abbreviated back to just Horse's Neck. We still like to simply call it like it is – a Maker's^® & Ginger.

The Bourbon Sour is a refined and refreshing blend of sour and sweet. The first printed mention of the Bourbon Sour that anyone is aware of is in the 1862 book "The Bartender's Guide" by Jerry Thomas. This cocktail has had enduring appeal and reaches a new level of refreshing when the sour notes are mixed with Maker’s^® sweetness.

Maple syrup gives the ultimate classic cocktail a rich sweetness and depth for those looking to mix things up. This drink is a direct descendant of the Old Fashioned, which early on was considered a morning drink, originally referred to as a “whisky cocktail".

With pronounced sugar and mint notes, the Mint Julep is one of our favorite bourbon cocktails and a natural match for warmer weather, horse races and good company. The mint julep became the official drink of the Kentucky Derby in 1938 but was actually invented in Virginia. This Southern favorite nears perfection when bourbon, particularly Maker's Mark, is used as the spirit of choice.

Sweet and strong with touches of citrus, the Old Fashioned never really gets old, especially when it's made with Maker's Mark. During its dawn, the Old Fashioned was considered a morning drink and was originally referred to as the "whisky cocktail". The renaming is said to have occurred at the Pendennis Club in Louisville, where the Old Fashioned remains that city's official cocktail.

Bright and balanced with just a kiss of bitterness from the Amaro and Aperol^® liqueurs, this elegant riff on the whisky sour sails to delicious, new heights. The Paper Plane cocktail may get its name from its remarkable balance – like a paper airplane that has been folded just right. The slightly bitter, lower-proof Aperol^® liqueur brightens things up, bringing touches of citrus and the signature Maker's caramel notes forward.

A bit like a “cold toddy,” the Penicillin cocktail brings together the comforting flavors of lemon and honey, a touch of smoke from scotch, a zing of ginger and, of course, Maker’s Mark. A tale of two whiskies, the Penicillin cocktail opens with aromas of smoke and peat and then gives way to a balanced sweetness and a pop of spice. Maker’s, Scotch, ginger, honey and lemon recall the flavors of warm drinks, but in this case, are best served on the rocks.

Layered with sweet and tart flavors, the Spiced Apple Spritz combines Maker’s Mark Classic with apple cider, sparkling wine, and a special blend of spices for a unique demerara syrup. With a splash of fresh lemon juice and apple slice for garnish, this cocktail will be the belle of the fall.

The Spiced Pumpkin Old Fashioned combines the best flavors of the Fall for a decadent seasonal cocktail.

An elegant twist on a sophisticated classic makes the French Oaked 75 an instant favorite. Maker’s Mark 46 pairs with chilled champagne, simple syrup, and a touch of lemon juice for a delightful cocktail with an array of flavor.

Apple Butter transforms the classic Old Fashioned into a tasty treat meant to be sipped and savored. Maker’s Mark Cask Strength, angostura bitters, and brown simple syrup set the stage for apple butter to shine through. Garnish with an orange peel for a sweet and aromatic delight. 

A taste of the season emerges through the Spiced Cranberry Sidecar. Maker’s Mark 46 fuses with orange liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of cranberry marmalade. With a garnish of orange peel, this cocktail becomes both fragrant and artesional.