Last Summer, we took a short trip to Seattle as a mini vacation. As we were walking PIke’s Place Market, we came across Radiator Whiskey. This excellent bar featured BBQ, tater tots and a slew of amazing whiskey-based cocktails. It was there that I fell in love with the bourbon margarita.
When we returned home, Lewis set about experimenting with a few favorite margarita recipes to create one that worked well with bourbon.
It was hard work sampling the many bourbon margarita iterations along the way, I assure you.
Ha!
OK, it was a lot of FUN sampling all the bourbon margarita iterations along the way.
Picking a Bourbon for Your Bourbon Margarita
Bourbon is the star in this cocktail, so you’ll want to find one that has a smooth taste. Think about one you wouldn’t mind sipping straight. This bourbon doesn’t have to be premium-priced either. It all just comes down to what bourbon is going to put a smile on your face while sipping this refreshing cocktail.
A few of my favorite brands that we’ve used for making this bourbon margarita recipe include Four Roses Bourbon, Maker’s Mark, and Bulleit Bourbon.
Erika's Bourbon Margarita
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 3/4 oz fresh lime juice It's worth it to squeeeze this yourself. The bottled stuff is just not as tasty.
- 1 tsp Grand Marnier I do not recommend substituting Triple Sec.
- 1 tsp agave syrup
- 4 ice cubes
- 1 slice small lime optional garnish
Instructions
- Combine ingredients in a cocktail shaker.
- Shake well.
- Serve with the ice in a rocks glass. Garnish with a lime wedge.
You know I’m gonna try this….cuz I’m the margarita queen!!!! And now I want to go to Seattle to visit Radiator Whiskey! Think I’ll start with the cocktail adventure because it’s a little bit closer.
I promise it’s the next best thing to sipping one of these bourbon margaritas in Seattle… 🙂
I’ve heard about Radiator Whiskey! A few years ago we were planning a (sadly indefinitely postponed) trip out west and the bar was high on my list of destinations. I’m so glad to hear it’s worthwhile, and this recipe sounds like an amazing tribute!
I’ve got a ton of recommendations when you eventually make the trek!
Does anyone know if Four Roses is gluten free? I’ve had issues with rye whiskey before (I assume mash was put back in after distilled) and all of theirs have a small amount of barley and rye. Thanks!
Hi Tina!
I’d suggest asking the folks at Four Roses about this through their website or on Twitter. I have a gluten intolerance and a wheat allergy, and have been able to drink this without issue but everyone has their own tolerances/intolerances. Good luck!