The three-ingredient Gold Rush cocktail is a smooth libation that has bourbon lovers swooning!
This modern cocktail has all the makings of a classic. Made with bourbon, honey syrup, and lemon juice, it’s simple yet refined. And it tastes like liquid gold!
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What are you waiting for? Mix one up and see what all the fuss is about.
What Is a Gold Rush Drink?
A Gold Rush is a modern cocktail. It’s like a cross between a whiskey sour and a Bee’s Knees .
It features three basic ingredients: bourbon, honey syrup, and lemon. But don’t let the simplicity fool you, as it’s remarkably complex and well-balanced.
Like the Penicillin cocktail , the Gold Rush was invented at New York’s Milk & Honey bar. Despite the old-time name, it didn’t come on the scene until the early 2000s.
Now, it’s a modern-day classic!
Ingredients
Do you have bourbon? How about honey and lemon? Then you can make this cocktail right now!
Here’s the rundown on the ingredients:
Bourbon – Choose a quality brand of bourbon. Some of my favorites include Bulleit and Four Roses.
Lemon – Do not use the bottled stuff! Fresh lemon juice is a must for this drink. The store-bought stuff has off-flavors that will diminish the quality.
Honey Syrup – For sweetness and balancing out the drink. You can make it with just honey and water.
Lemon Twist (Optional) – For a classy garnish!
How to Make a Gold Rush Cocktail
The Gold Rush is a simple yet impressive cocktail any beginner can make. All you need is a glass, a cocktail shaker, and these steps:
Fill a cocktail shaker. Pack a cocktail shaker with ice. Pour in the bourbon, lemon juice, and honey syrup. Shake for about 15 seconds.
Strain. Strain the cocktail into a chilled rocks glass filled with ice.
Garnish. Add a lemon twist if desired. Serve and enjoy!
What Kind of Whiskey Should I Use?
Quality whiskey is essential for this drink since the flavor is noticeable.
You can use any kind, but I recommend using bourbon. It is a little sweeter than your average whiskey, with wonderful notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak.
It doesn’t have to break the bank, either. Just choose something well-crafted with a flavor profile you like.
Here are some ideas:
Bulleit – My personal favorite! It’s clean, smooth, and a little spicy with a sweet oak aroma. It’s also widely available.
Four Roses – Rich and oaky with a nice spiced finish. It’s a little pricier than other bottles, but it’s worth it.
Buffalo Trace – An affordable brand that’s good quality. It has a pleasant aroma and hints of brown sugar.
Maker’s Mark – It’s easy to find and has complementary notes of fruit and vanilla.
Knob Creek – The notes of oak, vanilla, and caramel play well with the lemon and honey. It’s rich, woody, and full-bodied.
More Bourbon Cocktails
Bourbon Smash
New York Sour
Boulevardier
Mint Julep
Gold Rush Cocktail
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This tasty Gold Rush cocktail is guaranteed to give you a buzz! Made with bourbon, honey syrup, and lemon juice, it’s such a treat.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces bourbon
- 3/4 ounce fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 ounce honey syrup
- Lemon twist, for garnish
Instructions
- Add the bourbon, lemon juice, and honey syrup to a shaker filled with ice. Shake it vigorously for 15 seconds.
- Strain it into a chilled rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish it with a lemon twist. Serve and enjoy!
- How to Make Honey Syrup
- Combine equal parts water and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the honey dissolves completely.
- Remove it from the heat and let it cool before using. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- For a smoky twist, try using mezcal instead of bourbon for a “Mezcal Gold Rush.”
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