How do I make simple syrup?

Combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan. Heat gently, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Cool before using. You can store it in the fridge for up to a month.

Can I use a different spirit instead of bourbon?

Absolutely! While bourbon is traditional for the Clara Bow, rye whiskey or even gin can offer interesting variations. Each spirit will bring its own character to the cocktail.

Can this cocktail be made ahead of time for parties?

You can batch the base (bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup) and keep it chilled. Add muddled strawberries and mint freshly to each glass for best flavor and presentation.

Is it necessary to double strain?

Double straining removes strawberry seeds and mint bits, yielding a smooth, refined drink. If you don’t mind a rustic texture, a single strain will suffice, but double straining is recommended for the best experience.

Clara Bow

Name: Clara Bow
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1 serving
Cuisine: Cocktail
Ingredients: 2 oz Bourbon; 0.75 oz Fresh lemon juice; 0.5 oz Simple syrup; 2 pieces Strawberries; 4 pieces Mint leaves

The Clara Bow is a bright, refreshing, and elegantly balanced cocktail that marries bourbon with the lively flavors of fresh strawberries, mint, and lemon. Named after the iconic silent film star, this drink captures both old Hollywood glamour and modern cocktail sensibilities, making it perfect for sophisticated sipping or as a lively addition to your next soirée.

5 minutesMedium1 serving

Featured

Ingredients

1 serving

Bourbon
60 ml (2 oz)
Choose a smooth, mellow bourbon
Fresh lemon juice
25 ml (0.75 oz)
Freshly squeezed for brightness
Simple syrup
15 ml (0.5 oz)
1:1 sugar to water ratio
Strawberries
2 pieces
Hulled and quartered, plus more for garnish
Mint leaves
4 pieces
Fresh, plus sprig for garnish

Tools Needed

Cocktail shaker
Muddler
Hawthorne strainer
Fine mesh strainer
Jigger
Rocks glass

Instructions

In a shaker, gently muddle the strawberries and mint leaves with the simple syrup to release their flavors.
Add bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and plenty of ice to the shaker.
Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well-chilled.
Double strain through a Hawthorne strainer and fine mesh strainer into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
Garnish with a mint sprig and a strawberry slice.

Why You'll Love This Cocktail

It's visually stunning with a vibrant hue and fresh garnish.
The balance of sweet, tart, and herbal notes is irresistible.
Offers a lighter, fruitier take on bourbon cocktails.
Perfect for impressing guests at any gathering.
Links cocktail culture with classic Hollywood glamour.

History & Origin

The Clara Bow cocktail is named after the famed silent film 'It Girl' of the 1920s, Clara Bow herself. First crafted in New York City at the swanky Clover Club in Brooklyn, this drink is an homage to the era’s glitz and the actress's vivacious spirit. The use of fresh strawberries and mint nods to modern mixology trends, while bourbon anchors the drink in classic American cocktail tradition. Its popularity has soared with those who appreciate both a storied past and a fresh, contemporary twist.

Garnish

A fresh mint sprig and a strawberry slice. The mint provides an aromatic lift and a pop of color, while the strawberry hints at the cocktail’s fruity core.

Nutrition Info

Approx. 160 calories per serving. Contains about 12g sugar, negligible fat, and 1g protein. Alcohol content varies by bourbon used.

Frequently Asked Questions

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