Boulevardier

Boulevardier is a bold, smooth cocktail recipe with a rich balance of bitter, sweet, and warming flavors. This classic drink feels refined and easygoing, with a deep citrus finish and a velvety sip. If you want to know how to enjoy a timeless whiskey based favorite, the Boulevardier is a stylish choice for relaxed evenings and modern cocktail moments.

Glass

Old Fashioned glass

Prep Time

5 min

Difficulty

Medium

Alchol

Ingredients

1

1 oz bourbon

2

1 oz Campari

3

1 oz sweet vermouth

4

Garnish: orange twist

Steps

1

Step 1

Fill a mixing glass with ice, then add bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari.
2

Step 2

Stir well until the mixture is properly chilled and smoothly combined.
3

Step 3

Strain into a chilled rocks glass over fresh ice or serve straight up in a chilled coupe.
4

Step 4

Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink, then garnish with the peel and serve.

Flavor Profile

History

The Boulevardier is a classic cocktail that dates back to the 1920s and is often linked to Harry McElhone of Harry’s New York Bar in Paris. It was named after Erskine Gwynne, an American writer who published a magazine called Boulevardier in France. Often described as a whiskey based relative of the Negroni, the Boulevardier became popular for its balanced and sophisticated profile.

FAQ

What is a Boulevardier cocktail?
A Boulevardier is a classic whiskey cocktail made with bourbon or rye, sweet vermouth, and Campari. It is often described as a whiskey based cousin of the Negroni, with a rich, bittersweet flavor.
What does a Boulevardier taste like?
A Boulevardier tastes bold, smooth, and bittersweet. The whiskey adds warmth and depth, the sweet vermouth brings a touch of sweetness, and Campari gives it a distinctive bitter orange note.
How strong is a Boulevardier?
A Boulevardier is a fairly strong cocktail because it is made entirely with spirits and no juice or mixer. Its alcohol content usually lands around the same range as other spirit forward classics, depending on the exact pour.
Can I use bourbon or rye in a Boulevardier?
Yes, both bourbon and rye work well in a Boulevardier. Bourbon makes the drink a little rounder and sweeter, while rye gives it a spicier, drier edge.
What is the best vermouth for a Boulevardier?
A good sweet vermouth is the standard choice for a Boulevardier. Look for one with balanced sweetness and herbal notes so it complements the Campari and whiskey without overpowering them.
Should a Boulevardier be served up or on the rocks?
A Boulevardier can be served either way, depending on your preference. Serving it up feels more classic and polished, while serving it on the rocks softens the bitterness as the ice melts.