Imagine you’re at a party, ready to mix up some delicious drinks, but you’re staring at a wall of bourbon bottles. Which one will make your cocktail sing, and which one will just make it taste… okay? Picking the right bourbon for mixing can feel like a puzzle, and sometimes you end up with a drink that just doesn’t hit the spot.
Many people think any bourbon will do, but that’s not always true. Some bourbons are too strong or have flavors that don’t blend well. This can leave you disappointed with your creations. But what if there was a way to easily find a bourbon that’s perfect for your favorite cocktails, every single time?
In this post, we’ll unlock the secrets to choosing the best mixer bourbon. You’ll learn what makes a bourbon great for mixing and discover a few top choices that will make your drinks taste amazing. Get ready to impress your friends and yourself with your newfound cocktail skills!
Our Top 5 Mixer Bourbon Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Mixer Bourbon Detailed Reviews
1. Strongwater Old Fashioned Mix – Makes 32 Cocktails – Handcrafted Old Fashioned Syrup with Bitters
Rating: 8.9/10
Whip up a fantastic Old Fashioned with ease using the Strongwater Old Fashioned Mix. This handcrafted syrup is designed to make your cocktail experience simple and delicious. It’s made with quality ingredients, including organic cherries and orange zest, plus a special blend of spices and bitter herbs. You just need to add your favorite whiskey or bourbon, and you’ve got a perfectly balanced drink.
What We Like:
- Makes making an Old Fashioned super easy and consistent.
- It’s a Good Foods Award Finalist, meaning it’s recognized for its quality.
- Uses real organic cherries and orange zest for great flavor.
- The mix includes cinnamon, clove, cardamom, and bitter herbs for a complex taste.
- It’s non-GMO and gluten-free, so many people can enjoy it.
- You can make about 32 cocktails with one pack, which is a good value.
What Could Be Improved:
- Once opened, it should be used within 3-4 months.
- You still need to buy your own whiskey or bourbon.
This mix is a smart shortcut to a great Old Fashioned. It takes the guesswork out of crafting this classic cocktail.
2. Craftmix Black Cherry Old Fashioned Mix
Rating: 9.5/10
Get ready for a flavor party with Craftmix Black Cherry Old Fashioned Mix! This handy mix makes it super easy to create delicious Old Fashioned cocktails or mocktails in a flash. Made with real fruit, it’s a healthier way to enjoy your favorite drinks.
What We Like:
- Makes delicious Old Fashioned cocktails or mocktails in under a minute.
- Uses real fruit juice powders for amazing flavor.
- Super easy to make – just add bourbon or whiskey and water.
- It’s a guilt-free indulgence with only 25 calories per drink.
- Fat-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and gluten-free.
- Perfect for parties, camping, or just a treat after work.
- Comes in cute, portable packets.
- Great for making non-alcoholic drinks too.
What Could Be Improved:
- The packets are pre-measured, so you can’t adjust the flavor strength.
- While it’s easy, you still need to have bourbon or whiskey on hand.
Craftmix Black Cherry Old Fashioned Mix is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic cocktail with a healthier twist. It’s convenient, tasty, and perfect for any occasion.
3. Still Branch Single-Serve Old Fashioned Mix Cocktail Syrup – Handcrafted Cocktail Mixer with Real Bitters
Rating: 8.9/10
The Still Branch Single-Serve Old Fashioned Mix Cocktail Syrup is a game-changer for anyone who loves a perfectly crafted Old Fashioned. This handcrafted syrup brings premium ingredients right to your fingertips, making it super easy to enjoy a top-notch cocktail at home or on the go. It’s a multi-award winner, so you know you’re getting something special.
What We Like:
- Award-Winning Taste: This syrup has won Platinum and Multi-Double Gold awards, proving its amazing flavor.
- Handcrafted Quality: It’s made in Portland, Oregon, with care and premium ingredients like real bitters, Italian cherry, sorghum, maple, and dark brown sugars.
- Smooth and Rich Flavor: The mix blends orange and Italian marasca cherry with natural bitters, sorghum, maple syrup, and dark brown sugar for a delicious taste that goes great with whiskey.
- Convenient and Portable: The single-serve sachets are perfect for travel or parties. You don’t need to refrigerate them, and there’s no waste from leftover bottles.
- Super Easy to Use: Just add one sachet to 2 ounces of your favorite whiskey, add ice, and stir for 30 seconds. It’s that simple!
What Could Be Improved:
- Sachet Size: While convenient, some might prefer a larger format for home use if they make many cocktails.
- Availability: Being a premium, handcrafted product, it might not be available everywhere.
This Still Branch Old Fashioned mix truly simplifies making a fantastic cocktail. You get a delicious, well-balanced drink in seconds, no matter where you are.
4. Bittermilk Bourbon Barrel Aged Manhattan Mix – All Natural Handcrafted Cocktail Mixer – Manhattan Cocktail Mix – Just Add Whiskey
Rating: 9.0/10
Making a perfect Manhattan cocktail at home just got incredibly simple with the Bittermilk Bourbon Barrel Aged Manhattan Mix. This all-natural, handcrafted mixer lets you create a delicious Manhattan with just one other ingredient: whiskey. It’s designed by bartenders using real ingredients for a truly authentic taste experience.
What We Like:
- Handcrafted by Bartenders: Made with real ingredients by people who know cocktails.
- Award-Winning Flavor: Uses the same great Bitter Formula No.1 as their popular Old Fashioned mix.
- Bourbon Barrel Aged: Aged in bourbon barrels for extra depth and oaky notes.
- Simple to Use: Just add whiskey and ice for a fantastic cocktail.
- All-Natural Ingredients: Features gentian root, cinchona bark, spices, and real fruit flavors.
- Makes 17 Cocktails: A good amount for your home bar.
What Could Be Improved:
- Recipe Adjustment: While simple, some might prefer more detailed instructions on adjusting the ratio.
This mixer offers a sophisticated and easy way to enjoy a classic Manhattan. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to elevate their home bartending skills without the fuss.
5. Sweet Haven Tonics Bourbon Connoisseur Cocktail Mixers 3-Pack Sampler
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready to be a cocktail pro with the Sweet Haven Tonics Bourbon Connoisseur Cocktail Mixers 3-Pack Sampler! This set is your secret weapon for making amazing craft cocktails and mocktails right at home. It’s packed with all-natural, fresh ingredients, so you can skip the complicated steps and enjoy delicious drinks in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just starting out, this kit makes creating fancy drinks super easy and convenient. Plus, it’s a fantastic gift idea for anyone who loves a good drink!
What We Like:
- It’s a complete cocktail kit with handcrafted, fresh ingredients for perfect drinks every time.
- You can easily make delicious mocktails or cocktails, making mixology simple.
- It uses all-natural ingredients like whole fruits and fresh herbs, and it lasts for 3 years!
- It’s a quick and convenient way to enjoy mixologist-quality drinks at home.
- This set makes a wonderful gift for any occasion.
What Could Be Improved:
- The unique vinegar base might not be for everyone, as taste preference varies.
This sampler is a fantastic way to elevate your home bar and impress your guests. It’s a simple yet sophisticated solution for all your drink-making needs.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Mixer Bourbon
What is Mixer Bourbon?
Mixer Bourbon isn’t a specific brand. It’s a way of enjoying bourbon! Mixer bourbon refers to bourbon that is used as a base for cocktails. Think of it as the star ingredient in drinks like an Old Fashioned or a Manhattan. It’s the spirit that brings the warmth and flavor to your favorite mixed drinks.
Key Features to Look For in Mixer Bourbon
1. Flavor Profile
Bourbon has a wide range of flavors. Some are sweet with notes of caramel and vanilla. Others are spicier with hints of cinnamon and oak. For mixing, a bourbon with a balanced flavor is often best. It should be strong enough to stand out but not so overpowering that it hides other ingredients.
2. Proof (Alcohol Content)
Proof tells you how strong the bourbon is. It’s usually between 80 and 100 proof. Higher proof bourbons can give your cocktails a bolder kick. Lower proof ones might be smoother. For most mixers, 80-90 proof is a great starting point.
3. Age Statement
Some bourbons have an age statement, like “10 Year Old.” This means the youngest whiskey in the bottle is at least that old. Older bourbons can be smoother and more complex. However, for mixing, a younger bourbon can be just as good and often more affordable.
Important Materials (What Makes Bourbon, Bourbon)
Bourbon is made primarily from corn. At least 51% of the grain used must be corn. This gives bourbon its characteristic sweetness. Other grains like rye and barley are also used. These add different layers of flavor. Bourbon must also be aged in new, charred oak barrels. This aging process gives bourbon its color and many of its flavors.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Improving Quality:
- High-Quality Grains: Using good corn, rye, and barley makes a difference.
- Careful Distillation: The way the spirit is made affects its taste.
- Longer Aging: More time in the barrel can lead to a smoother, richer flavor.
- Skilled Blending: Combining different barrels can create a more balanced taste.
Reducing Quality:
- Artificial Flavorings: Good bourbon doesn’t need added flavors.
- Poor Distillation: Mistakes in making the spirit can lead to a harsh taste.
- Too Much Rye: While rye adds spice, too much can make it overly peppery.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using bourbon as a mixer is a fun way to explore different tastes. It’s perfect for parties or a quiet night in. You can create classic cocktails or invent your own. A good mixer bourbon makes your drinks taste professional.
Common Mixer Bourbon Cocktails:
- Old Fashioned: Bourbon, sugar, bitters, and a twist of orange.
- Whiskey Sour: Bourbon, lemon juice, sugar, and sometimes egg white.
- Manhattan: Bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
- Bourbon Ginger Ale: Simple, refreshing, and easy to make.
The experience of mixing bourbon is about creativity and enjoyment. You can start with simple mixers and move to more complex recipes as you get comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best proof for mixer bourbon?
A: A proof between 80 and 90 is usually a good choice for mixing. It offers a good balance of strength and smoothness.
Q: Do I need expensive bourbon for cocktails?
A: No, you don’t! Many affordable bourbons make excellent mixers. Focus on brands known for good quality at a fair price.
Q: Can I use any bourbon for mixing?
A: Yes, you can use any bourbon. However, some bourbons are better suited for mixing due to their flavor profiles.
Q: What makes bourbon different from whiskey?
A: Bourbon is a type of American whiskey. It must be made in the U.S. and use at least 51% corn. It also must be aged in new, charred oak barrels.
Q: Should I taste the bourbon before mixing it?
A: Yes, it’s a good idea to taste it neat first. This helps you understand its flavors and how it might interact with other ingredients.
Q: What are some common flavor notes in bourbon?
A: Common notes include caramel, vanilla, oak, spice (like cinnamon), and sometimes fruit.
Q: Is there a “best” bourbon for an Old Fashioned?
A: Many people prefer a bourbon with a bit of spice and oak for an Old Fashioned. Brands like Buffalo Trace or Four Roses are popular choices.
Q: Can I use bourbon that is very smooth for mixing?
A: Absolutely! A very smooth bourbon can make for an incredibly pleasant drinking experience in cocktails.
Q: How does the type of grain affect mixer bourbon?
A: Corn brings sweetness. Rye adds spice. Barley helps with smoothness and body. The mix of grains creates the bourbon’s unique taste.
Q: What’s the difference between small-batch and single-barrel bourbon for mixers?
A: Small-batch bourbons are a blend of a few barrels. Single-barrel bourbons come from just one barrel, so they can have a more distinct flavor.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!