The three-ingredient Gold Rush cocktail is a smooth libation that has bourbon lovers swooning!
This modern cocktail has all the makings of a classic. Made with bourbon, honey syrup, and lemon juice, it’s simple yet refined. And it tastes like liquid gold!
What are you waiting for? Mix one up and see what all the fuss is about.
What Is a Gold Rush Drink?
A Gold Rush is a modern cocktail. It’s like a cross between a whiskey sour and a Bee’s Knees.
It features three basic ingredients: bourbon, honey syrup, and lemon. But don’t let the simplicity fool you, as it’s remarkably complex and well-balanced.
Like the Penicillin cocktail, the Gold Rush was invented at New York’s Milk & Honey bar. Despite the old-time name, it didn’t come on the scene until the early 2000s.
Now, it’s a modern-day classic!
Ingredients
Do you have bourbon? How about honey and lemon? Then you can make this cocktail right now!
Here’s the rundown on the ingredients:
- Bourbon – Choose a quality brand of bourbon. Some of my favorites include Bulleit and Four Roses.
- Lemon – Do not use the bottled stuff! Fresh lemon juice is a must for this drink. The store-bought stuff has off-flavors that will diminish the quality.
- Honey Syrup – For sweetness and balancing out the drink. You can make it with just honey and water.
- Lemon Twist (Optional) – For a classy garnish!
How to Make a Gold Rush Cocktail
The Gold Rush is a simple yet impressive cocktail any beginner can make. All you need is a glass, a cocktail shaker, and these steps:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker. Pack a cocktail shaker with ice. Pour in the bourbon, lemon juice, and honey syrup. Shake for about 15 seconds.
2. Strain. Strain the cocktail into a chilled rocks glass filled with ice.
3. Garnish. Add a lemon twist if desired. Serve and enjoy!
What Kind of Whiskey Should I Use?
Quality whiskey is essential for this drink since the flavor is noticeable.
You can use any kind, but I recommend using bourbon. It is a little sweeter than your average whiskey, with wonderful notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak.
It doesn’t have to break the bank, either. Just choose something well-crafted with a flavor profile you like.
Here are some ideas:
- Bulleit – My personal favorite! It’s clean, smooth, and a little spicy with a sweet oak aroma. It’s also widely available.
- Four Roses – Rich and oaky with a nice spiced finish. It’s a little pricier than other bottles, but it’s worth it.
- Buffalo Trace – An affordable brand that’s good quality. It has a pleasant aroma and hints of brown sugar.
- Maker’s Mark – It’s easy to find and has complementary notes of fruit and vanilla.
- Knob Creek – The notes of oak, vanilla, and caramel play well with the lemon and honey. It’s rich, woody, and full-bodied.
More Bourbon Cocktails
Gold Rush Cocktail
1
servings5
minutes232
kcalThis tasty Gold Rush cocktail is guaranteed to give you a buzz! Made with bourbon, honey syrup, and lemon juice, it’s such a treat.
Ingredients
2 ounces bourbon
3/4 ounce fresh lemon juice
3/4 ounce honey syrup
Lemon twist, for garnish
Instructions
- Add the bourbon, lemon juice, and honey syrup to a shaker filled with ice. Shake it vigorously for 15 seconds.
- Strain it into a chilled rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish it with a lemon twist. Serve and enjoy!
- How to Make Honey Syrup
- Combine equal parts water and honey in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the honey dissolves completely.
- Remove it from the heat and let it cool before using. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- For a smoky twist, try using mezcal instead of bourbon for a “Mezcal Gold Rush.”
