Kentucky Buck Cocktail

The Kentucky Buck is a refreshing and flavorful bourbon cocktail that's perfect for summer entertaining or enjoying on a warm day. It combines the smooth taste of bourbon with the spicy kick of ginger ale and the tartness of lemon juice, making for a well-balanced and delicious drink. Here's what you'll need to make a Kentucky Buck:

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces bourbon (Knob Creek, Maker's Mark, or any bourbon you prefer)
• ¾ ounce fresh lemon juice
• ½ ounce simple syrup (you can also use maple syrup for a twist)
• 3-4 ounces chilled ginger ale
• Fresh strawberry (for garnish)
• Lemon wheel (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the fresh strawberry to release its juices and flavor.
2. Pour in the bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 20 seconds. This chills the drink and dilutes it slightly.
4. Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with fresh ice. Top it off with chilled ginger ale.
5. Add a fresh strawberry and a lemon wheel for a decorative touch. Enjoy your Kentucky Buck!

Tips:

• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Pre-bottled lemon juice can have a harsher taste.
• If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the amount of simple syrup to ¼ ounce.
• Choose a high-quality ginger ale for the best flavor experience.
• Instead of a strawberry, you can use muddled raspberries, blueberries, or even a slice of muddled cucumber for a refreshing twist.
• This recipe makes one drink, but you can easily multiply the ingredients to create a pitcher of Kentucky Buck for a crowd.

The Kentucky Buck is a simple yet satisfying cocktail that's perfect for any occasion. With its balance of sweet, tart, and spicy flavors, it's sure to become a new favorite. So, grab your ingredients, muddle that strawberry, and enjoy a taste of Kentucky hospitality!