Can I batch this cocktail for a party?

Yes! Just scale up the ingredients, mix them in a pitcher, and refrigerate. Serve over ice as guests arrive. Give it a good stir before pouring so the cream stays blended.

Can I use a different whiskey instead of bourbon?

Absolutely! While Kentucky bourbon gives the cocktail its signature flavor, you can experiment with rye or even a Tennessee whiskey for a spicier or smoother variation.

Do I need to use fresh strawberries?

Fresh strawberries provide the best flavor and color, but you can use frozen if they’re out of season—just thaw before muddling. Avoid strawberry syrups, as they can make the drink overly sweet and artificial.

What’s the best ginger beer for this cocktail?

Choose a ginger beer with a strong, spicy kick—brands like Fever-Tree or Q Mixers work well. A good ginger beer should be zesty enough to stand up to the bourbon and not too sweet.

Kentucky Buck

Name: Kentucky Buck
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 dashes Angostura bitters; 1 whole Strawberry; 2 oz Ginger beer

The Kentucky Buck is a lively, bourbon-based cocktail that combines the sweet tang of fresh strawberries, the bite of ginger beer, and the brightness of lemon. This modern classic bridges the gap between whiskey lovers and cocktail enthusiasts seeking something refreshing and playful, perfect for sipping on a sunny afternoon or impressing friends at your next gathering.

5 minutesMedium1 serving

Featured

Ingredients

1 serving

Bourbon
60 ml (2 oz)
Choose a smooth, mid-range bourbon
Fresh lemon juice
25 ml (0.75 oz)
Freshly squeezed for best results
Simple syrup
15 ml (0.5 oz)
1:1 sugar to water
Angostura bitters
2 dashes
Adds depth and spice
Strawberry
1 whole
Hull and slice
Ginger beer
60 ml (2 oz)
Top with a quality ginger beer

Tools Needed

Cocktail shaker
Hawthorne strainer
Fine mesh strainer
Muddler
Jigger
Bar spoon
Highball glass

Instructions

Add the sliced strawberry and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker. Muddle gently until the fruit is broken down.
Add bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and Angostura bitters to the shaker.
Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds.
Double strain (using Hawthorne and fine mesh strainers) into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
Top with ginger beer and give a gentle stir to integrate.
Garnish with a fresh strawberry and a lemon wheel.

Why You'll Love This Cocktail

Perfectly balances bourbon's warmth with fruity, zesty flavors.
Strawberries add a fresh, summery twist.
Ginger beer gives it a spicy kick and effervescent finish.
Versatile and approachable for both whiskey fans and cocktail newcomers.
Visually stunning—guaranteed to impress guests.

History & Origin

The Kentucky Buck was created by bartender Erick Castro in San Diego in the late 2000s. Inspired by classic 'Buck' cocktails (which pair spirit, citrus, and ginger beer), Castro's twist introduces muddled strawberries and a dash of Angostura bitters, elevating the drink with complexity and a vibrant, summery hue. It quickly became a favorite in craft cocktail bars, celebrated for its balance and crowd-pleasing flavors.

Garnish

A fresh strawberry and a lemon wheel—these not only enhance the drink’s vibrant look but also echo the cocktail’s fruity and citrusy notes, making every sip aromatic and inviting.

Nutrition Info

Approx. 180-200 kcal per serving. Contains about 16g sugar, 0g fat, and 1g protein. Alcohol content varies based on bourbon chosen (about 1.5 standard drinks).

Frequently Asked Questions

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