master-cooks | Alton Brown's Favorite Cocktail Combines 3 Strong Liquors

Alton Brown, the well-known chef and television personality, has a penchant for classic cocktails, and one of his favorites is a potent concoction that artfully blends three robust liquors. The drink, known for its balance and complexity, typically combines gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, though Brown may have his own unique twist on the proportions or garnish. This cocktail, reminiscent of the Negroni, is beloved for its bold flavors and vibrant color. The gin provides a botanical backbone, while the Campari introduces a bitter, citrusy note that is beautifully offset by the rich sweetness of the vermouth. Alton Brown appreciates this drink not only for its taste but also for the versatility it offers, as it can be adjusted to suit personal preferences or the occasion. He often highlights the importance of quality ingredients and precise measurements to achieve the perfect balance, emphasizing that even small variations can significantly impact the final flavor. This cocktail is typically served over ice or straight up in a chilled glass, with an orange twist or peel as a finishing touch, adding an aromatic element that enhances the overall drinking experience.

The Boulevardier showcases whiskey in a Negroni-like build

While often eclipsed by its Italian counterpart, the Boulevardier is a classic cocktail with a rich history, first referenced in a 1927 publication. It remained relatively obscure until the 21st century, when the surge in popularity of Negronis prompted bartenders to revisit this similar variation. The traditional recipe features equal parts bourbon, vermouth, and Campari, but this ratio has been adjusted to suit contemporary tastes.

Modern drinkers tend to prefer a bolder, spirit-forward cocktail that highlights the quality of the spirits used. As a result, the bourbon component has become more pronounced, though many bartenders still find the drink overly sweet. This is largely due to the distinct flavor profiles of bourbon and whiskey, with bourbon's corn content influencing the overall mix.

Alton Brown's preference for a Boulevardier made with rye is not just a personal choice; it reflects the drink's evolution in recent years. Just as a Negroni requires a robust gin to achieve perfection, the same principle applies to the use of a spice-forward rye in this cocktail. Given Brown's impressive collection of high-quality spirits, it's advisable to select a premium bottle to recreate his version.

Alton Brown's Favorite Cocktail Combines 3 Strong Liquors

The Boulevardier showcases whiskey in a Negroni-like build

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