The Kentucky Buck is a refreshing and zesty cocktail that beautifully combines the robustness of bourbon with the tang of ginger and the sweetness of strawberries. This modern classic has quickly gained popularity among cocktail enthusiasts and bourbon lovers alike, thanks to its well-balanced flavors and easy-to-make recipe.
The origin of the Kentucky Buck can be traced back to the early 2000s, when the cocktail scene was experiencing a resurgence of interest in classic drinks and their modern interpretations. The Kentucky Buck is believed to have been created by a bartender named Erick Castro, who was working at the Rickhouse Bar in San Francisco.
Castro's inspiration for the Kentucky Buck came from the classic Moscow Mule, a cocktail made with vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice. He decided to give this classic a Southern twist by replacing the vodka with bourbon, a spirit synonymous with the state of Kentucky. To add a fruity dimension to the drink, Castro muddled fresh strawberries into the mixture, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
The Kentucky Buck quickly gained popularity at the Rickhouse Bar and soon spread to other cocktail bars across the country. Its appeal lies in its ability to showcase the bold flavors of bourbon while also offering a refreshing and easy-drinking experience, making it perfect for any occasion.
Kentucky Buck
Ingredients
- 2 oz Kentucky bourbon
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz Ginger syrup*
- 2-3 fresh strawberries
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Ginger beer
- Garnish: strawberry and mint sprig
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle the strawberries with the simple syrup and lemon juice.
- Add the bourbon and Angostura bitters to the shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds until well-chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a copper mug or highball glass filled with ice.
- Top with ginger beer, giving the drink a gentle stir to combine the ingredients.
- Garnish with a fresh strawberry and a sprig of mint.
- Serve the Kentucky Buck immediately and enjoy the perfect blend of bourbon, ginger, and strawberry flavors.
- To make the ginger syrup you make a simple syrup and put in fresh ginger and let steep for for al least 30 minutes
I actually introduced this cocktail about this time last summer and it quickly became the cocktail of the summer at my house. I was even able to convert a few new members to the Bourbon Gospel congregation who previously said they did not care for bourbon cocktails.
As the popularity of the Kentucky Buck grew, bartenders began to experiment with variations on the original recipe. Some swapped out the strawberries for other seasonal fruits like blackberries or peaches, while others played with the proportions of the ingredients to create a more bourbon-forward or fruit-forward drink.
The Kentucky Buck has also found its way into the world of bottled cocktails and ready-to-drink beverages, making it easier than ever for people to enjoy this delightful concoction at home or on the go.
As you sip your Kentucky Buck, take a moment to appreciate the ingenuity and creativity of the bartenders who have helped to make this cocktail a modern classic. From its humble beginnings at the Rickhouse Bar to its current status as a beloved bourbon cocktail, the Kentucky Buck is a testament to the enduring appeal of well-crafted drinks that balance tradition with innovation.
So, whether you're a die-hard bourbon fan like me, or simply looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail, give the Kentucky Buck a try. With its perfect blend of Southern charm and zesty freshness, it's sure to become a staple in your home bar repertoire.
As always I am open to hear your take and your input. You can reach me at [email protected]