The Boulevardier is a rich and refined cocktail that brings together the warmth of bourbon or rye whiskey, the bitterness of Campari, and the sweetness of sweet vermouth. Often described as a whiskey-based twist on the Negroni, the Boulevardier is a perfect choice for anyone who loves bold, spirit-forward cocktails with a touch of complexity. This cocktail has a timeless appeal, combining three simple ingredients to create a drink that’s smooth, slightly bitter, and perfectly balanced. Let’s explore the history, unique qualities, and the recipe to make the perfect Boulevardier at home.
The Origins of the Boulevardier
The Boulevardier was created in 1927 by American expat and writer Erskine Gwynne, who was living in Paris and editing a literary magazine called The Boulevardier. Gwynne frequented the famed Harry’s New York Bar in Paris, where he introduced the cocktail that would become synonymous with his magazine’s name. Inspired by the Negroni, Gwynne decided to swap gin for whiskey, creating a new cocktail that quickly gained popularity among American expats and locals alike.
While the Boulevardier may not have reached the level of fame as the Negroni, it has enjoyed a resurgence in recent years and is now celebrated as a classic in its own right. Its deep, warming flavors make it an ideal cocktail for colder months, though it’s delicious year-round for anyone who enjoys a balanced, bittersweet drink.
What Makes the Boulevardier So Unique
The Boulevardier is unique for several reasons:
- A Bold Twist on the Negroni: While the Negroni is typically light and herbaceous due to gin’s botanical profile, the Boulevardier brings a richer, warmer flavor profile with the substitution of whiskey, making it smoother and more robust.
- Perfect Balance of Sweet, Bitter, and Strong: The Boulevardier’s combination of whiskey, Campari, and sweet vermouth creates a cocktail that’s smooth yet complex, with a balance of sweetness, bitterness, and depth.
- Versatile with Whiskey Choices: The Boulevardier can be made with bourbon for a softer, slightly sweeter profile or with rye whiskey for a spicier, more robust flavor. This versatility allows you to tailor the cocktail to your personal taste.
How to Make the Perfect Boulevardier
The Boulevardier is a simple cocktail that requires only three ingredients and is easy to make at home. Here’s a classic recipe to get you started.
Classic Boulevardier Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 oz (3 cl) bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1 oz (3 cl) Campari
- 1 oz (3 cl) sweet vermouth
- Ice
- Orange twist or cherry for garnish
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing glass, add the whiskey, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
- Stir with Ice: Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for about 20–30 seconds to chill and dilute the cocktail.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or rocks glass. For a classic presentation, serve it straight up in a coupe; for a more relaxed experience, serve over a large ice cube in a rocks glass.
- Garnish: Garnish with an orange twist or a cherry to add a hint of aroma and visual appeal.
Tip: Adjust the balance by adding a bit more whiskey for a stronger profile, or more sweet vermouth for a sweeter, softer finish.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
- Whiskey: The choice of whiskey plays a big role in the character of the Boulevardier. Bourbon adds a mellow sweetness with notes of caramel and vanilla, while rye whiskey brings a spicier, drier profile. Both work beautifully, so choose based on your taste preference.
- Campari: Campari provides the signature bitterness and vibrant red color of the Boulevardier. Its herbal, slightly citrusy flavor contrasts well with the sweetness of the vermouth and whiskey, creating a balanced, complex drink.
- Sweet Vermouth: The sweet vermouth adds a layer of richness and subtle herbal sweetness. Quality vermouths like Carpano Antica Formula or Cocchi Vermouth di Torino are excellent choices and will enhance the cocktail’s depth.
- Orange Twist or Cherry: An orange twist is the classic garnish for a Boulevardier, adding a bright citrus aroma that complements the drink’s warm flavors. A cherry adds a hint of sweetness and a beautiful color contrast, making it a great alternative.
Tips for Perfecting Your Boulevardier
- Stir, Don’t Shake: The Boulevardier is a spirit-forward cocktail, so it should be stirred to maintain its smooth, velvety texture. Shaking would over-dilute and cloud the drink, which isn’t ideal for this type of cocktail.
- Chill Your Glass: Pre-chilling your glass enhances the drinking experience, keeping the cocktail colder for longer. Simply fill the glass with ice water while preparing the drink, then discard the water before straining.
- Experiment with Ratios: While the 1:1:1 ratio is classic, you can adjust to taste. A 1.5 oz whiskey to 0.75 oz each Campari and vermouth ratio creates a more whiskey-forward drink that some prefer.
- Use Fresh Vermouth: Sweet vermouth can lose its flavor quickly after opening, so store it in the fridge and use it within a few weeks for the best flavor.
Boulevardier Variations to Try
While the classic Boulevardier is perfect on its own, here are some variations that add a unique twist to this classic cocktail:
- Smoky Boulevardier: Use a smoky Scotch instead of bourbon or rye for a bold, smoky flavor that adds depth and richness to the cocktail. This variation is ideal for Scotch lovers.
- Mezcal Boulevardier: Substitute mezcal for the whiskey for a smoky, earthy version with a distinct agave character. This version is great for adventurous drinkers.
- Spicy Boulevardier: Add a dash of spicy bitters (such as chili or cinnamon bitters) to enhance the warmth and spice of the cocktail, creating a version that’s perfect for cold evenings.
- Rosita: Swap the whiskey for tequila and add an extra ½ oz of dry vermouth for a Mexican twist on the Boulevardier. The tequila brings an earthy, slightly vegetal flavor to the drink.
- New York Boulevardier: Add a bar spoon of maraschino liqueur or cherry liqueur for a hint of sweetness and cherry flavor that complements the whiskey and Campari beautifully.
When to Serve the Boulevardier
The Boulevardier is a versatile cocktail that’s suited for a range of occasions:
- Aperitif: The Boulevardier’s bittersweet profile makes it a great pre-dinner drink, awakening the palate without overwhelming it.
- After-Dinner Digestif: The richness of the Boulevardier also makes it an excellent digestif, perfect for sipping after a meal to aid digestion.
- Cool Weather Gatherings: With its warming whiskey base and bittersweet flavor, the Boulevardier is ideal for fall and winter gatherings, bringing comfort and complexity to any occasion.
- Happy Hour: The Boulevardier is a popular choice for happy hour, especially for those who enjoy a strong yet balanced drink with depth and character.
Why You Should Try the Boulevardier
The Boulevardier is a cocktail that combines the best of both worlds: the warmth and depth of whiskey with the bittersweet, complex flavor of Campari and vermouth. It’s a drink that’s both bold and balanced, offering a sophisticated experience with each sip. Whether you’re a fan of the Negroni or simply looking to try something new, the Boulevardier is a fantastic addition to any cocktail repertoire.
With its easy recipe and endless variations, the Boulevardier is a cocktail that’s perfect for experimenting and tailoring to your tastes. So next time you’re in the mood for a classic cocktail with a twist, shake things up with a Boulevardier, sit back, and savor its unique, rich flavors. Cheers to the timeless charm of the Boulevardier!