The Boulevardier: A Bittersweet Parisian Dream

Imagine yourself on a sun-drenched veranda, swaying to the rhythm of cicadas. That's the essence of the Boulevard, a classic cocktail that marries the warmth of bourbon with the bittersweet bite of Campari and the depth of sweet vermouth. It's a Southern charmer, smooth as molasses and rich with a complex dance of flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/4 ounces bourbon whiskey (choose a bold option for maximum impact)
• 1 ounce Campari (bittersweet Italian aperitif)
• 1 ounce sweet vermouth (Italian rosso preferred)
• Orange peel or cinnamon stick, for garnish
• Optional: Luxardo Maraschino cherry, for garnish

Instructions:

Gather your ingredients: Opt for a full-bodied bourbon with notes of caramel, vanilla, or spice to complement the other flavors. Fresh citrus peel or a cinnamon stick adds a fragrant touch.

Chill your tools: Fill a mixing glass with ice and let it sit while you measure your ingredients.

Combine and stir: Add the bourbon, Campari, and sweet vermouth to the chilled mixing glass. Stir gently for 20-30 seconds to blend and chill the drink.

Strain and serve: Double-strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a chilled coupe glass.

Garnish with style: Express the orange peel over the surface to release its oils, then discard it or rim the glass. For a touch of warmth, a cinnamon stick adds a subtle aromatic twist. If desired, a Luxardo Maraschino cherry offers a pop of sweetness and visual elegance.

Tips and Variations:

Spice it up: Infuse your sweet vermouth with a couple of star anise pods or cloves for a warm, exotic aroma.

Go dry: Substitute dry vermouth for the sweet for a drier, more botanical profile.

Fruity adventure: Muddle or infuse your bourbon with berries like blackberries or raspberries for a vibrant burst of flavor.

Smoke and mirrors: Experiment with mezcal instead of bourbon for a smoky, earthy twist.

So, raise a glass to the Boulevard, a celebration of Southern warmth and spirit. With its complex layers of sweet, bitter, and spicy, it's a journey for your taste buds and a tribute to the timeless allure of Southern charm.

Enjoy responsibly!