Kentucky Buck – Kentucky – Bourbon, Strawberry, Ginger
Uncover the zesty Kentucky Buck cocktail's bourbon, strawberry, and ginger fusion that promises a refreshing Southern twist.
I’m excited to share the Kentucky Buck, a cocktail I love from early 20th-century America, rooted in Kentucky’s bourbon heritage and Southern traditions. I mix about 2 ounces of bourbon with 0.75 ounces of fresh lemon juice, 0.5 ounces of simple syrup, and muddle a strawberry before topping it with ginger beer for that zesty fizz. It’s perfect for casual summer gatherings. You’ll find my tips on variations and prep next, so let’s keep the vibe going.
History
The Kentucky Buck cocktail originated in the early 20th century in the United States, drawing from the classic Buck family of drinks and deeply rooted in Kentucky’s bourbon heritage, reflecting Southern American mixology traditions.
Regional variations, such as using rye whiskey in the Northeast or adding fresh strawberries for a fruity twist in California, signify local ingredient availability and cultural preferences, adapting the drink to diverse palates.
Traditionally, it’s served at casual social events, summer barbecues, or in bars as an invigorating highball, highlighting its role in relaxed and celebratory gatherings.
Ingredients
- Bourbon, about 2 ounces: You know, this is the heart and soul of the Kentucky Buck, that smooth, amber whiskey straight from the Bluegrass State – it’s like a warm, welcoming hug in liquid form, making you wonder if every drink needs a little Southern flair to really shine.
- Fresh lemon juice, roughly 0.75 ounces: Ah, the zingy sidekick that adds a tart punch, cutting through the richness with its bright, citrusy vibe – picture it as the witty friend who keeps things lively, because who wants a flat drink when you can have one that dances on your tongue?
- Ginger beer, to top off the glass: This fizzy wonder brings the spice and bubbles, like a playful burst of energy that turns your cocktail into an invigorating adventure – it’s that ingredient you might overlook, but oh, it sneaks in with a cheeky kick, making you think, what would life be without a little ginger surprise?
- Simple syrup, about 0.5 ounces: A sweet little helper to balance the flavors, just a touch of sugary goodness that whispers, “Hey, let’s smooth things out,” because sometimes, even in mixing drinks, you need that extra nudge to avoid a sour pucker – it’s like the peacekeeper in your glass, always ready with a subtle charm.
- Fresh strawberry, one or two for garnish: This juicy berry adds a fun, fruity twist, especially if you’re feeling fancy or borrowing from those West Coast vibes – it’s the optional flair that says, why not dress up your drink with a pop of color, like nature’s own little joke on plain old cocktails, making you pause and appreciate the simple joys of fresh fruit.
Preparation
Let’s jump into making the Kentucky Buck, a cocktail that’s as easy as chatting with a friend over a sunny afternoon.
Start by gathering your ingredients and a cocktail shaker or sturdy glass – because nothing beats that fresh, fizzy vibe when everything’s prepped just right.
When you first add the about 2 ounces of bourbon, think of it as the star of the show, pouring in that smooth whiskey to set the stage for a drink that’ll warm you up without much fuss.
Now, for the real fun, follow these steps to mix it all together:
- Muddle the strawberry: Take one fresh strawberry and gently muddle it in the bottom of your cocktail shaker or glass – this breaks it down to release its juicy sweetness, adding a fruity twist that makes you wonder, what if every drink had this kind of natural pop?
- Add the liquids: Pour in the roughly 0.75 ounces of fresh lemon juice for that tart kick, followed by the about 0.5 ounces of simple syrup to tame any sharpness, and of course, the about 2 ounces of bourbon we mentioned earlier.
Give it a good stir or shake with some ice to blend those flavors into a harmonious mix, like whispering secrets that turn ordinary into something special.
Once you’ve shaken things up for about 10-15 seconds, strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
Top it off with ginger beer to your liking – that fizzy topper brings everything alive with its spicy bubbles.
Finally, garnish with another fresh strawberry if you’re in the mood for a little extra flair, turning your glass into a colorful invitation for sips and smiles.
Tips and Variations
When you’re tweaking the Kentucky Buck, consider starting with the strawberry – maybe swap it for raspberries or blackberries to add a different berry burst that keeps things fresh and fun, or what if you ease up on the simple syrup, say from 0.5 ounces to just a whisper, to let that lemon juice shine through with its bright tang?
For a playful twist, try subbing out the bourbon for rye whiskey if you’re in the mood for a sharper edge, or go non-alcoholic by using ginger ale instead of ginger beer, which might make the whole drink feel lighter and more approachable;
me, I sometimes wonder if adding a dash of bitters could turn this easy mixer into a sophisticated surprise, without turning your kitchen into a mad scientist’s lab.
Hi There! I'm Stephanie Miller: Elementary teacher from Columbus, OH sharing grandma's treasured American recipes! 50 years young, yoga enthusiast & kitchen storyteller. Welcome to my food family! 🍰❤️
