Cherry and bourbon are already a perfect pair, but when you layer in vanilla and a touch of citrus, the entire drink opens up into something smooth, refreshing, and dangerously easy to sip. The Crimson Velvet Bourbon Sparkler brings those classic flavors together with a bright effervescence that makes this cocktail feel light without losing the richness bourbon brings.
The use of tart cherry juice gives this drink a deeper, more vibrant flavor compared to sweetened options. Combined with a lightly infused vanilla syrup, the profile becomes round and silky, offering just enough sweetness to balance the acidity from the lemon. It’s the kind of drink that lands right between bold and refreshing.
Club soda adds the final lift, turning this into a soft, sparkling cocktail that works beautifully for warm evenings, weekend cookouts, or as a colorful showpiece when entertaining. It’s also incredibly simple to batch or riff on — making it a versatile addition to your cocktail lineup.
Whether you’re a bourbon loyalist or someone looking for a fruit-forward drink with character, this one hits the sweet spot. The flavors feel familiar yet elevated, and the ingredients take well to seasonal tweaks like smoked cherries, amarena garnishes, or even a splash of ginger beer for added heat.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1.5 oz tart cherry juice
- 1 oz vanilla bean simple syrup
- 0.5 oz lemon juice
- 2 oz chilled club soda
- ice
- fresh cherries for garnish
- 1 thin lemon slice, for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add bourbon, cherry juice, vanilla syrup, and lemon juice.
- Shake firmly for 12–15 seconds until frosty and blended.
- Strain into a rocks or highball glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with club soda and gently stir once.
- Garnish with cherries and a delicate lemon slice.