Ginger Lime Bourbon Cooler
Bourbon, fresh lime, ginger syrup, and sparkling water make a bright cooler with a clean spicy finish.
Prep: 10 · Cook: · Total: 10 · Serves: 2 · Difficulty: Easy · Rating: 4.8/5 (224 reviews)
INSPIRED BY
An original bourbon highball inspired by ginger beer coolers and bright lime-forward porch drinks.
Story
Theo likes a drink that can handle a long afternoon without turning into a project. Ginger syrup gives the bourbon a little snap, lime keeps it bright, and sparkling water stretches the whole thing into a proper cooler. A pinch of salt makes the citrus pop. Keep the ice high and the conversation going.
By Theo
Ingredients
- 4 oz bourbon
- 2 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 1/2 oz ginger syrup
- 4 oz chilled sparkling water
- 2 lime wheels, for garnish
- 2 thin ginger slices, for garnish
- Ice
- 2 mint sprigs, for garnish
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Fill two tall glasses with ice and add a tiny pinch of sea salt to each glass.
- Pour two ounces of bourbon, one ounce of lime juice, and three-quarters of an ounce of ginger syrup into each glass.
- Stir each drink with a bar spoon until the mixture is cold and well blended.
- Top each glass with two ounces of sparkling water, pouring slowly so the bubbles stay lively.
- Give each cooler one gentle lift from the bottom with the spoon to combine without flattening it.
- Garnish with a lime wheel, ginger slice, and mint sprig, then serve immediately.
Chef Tips
- Use a spicy ginger syrup for a stronger finish or a mild one for a softer drink.
- Chill the sparkling water well before mixing.
- A bourbon with caramel notes works especially well here.
- For a pitcher, combine everything except the sparkling water and add the bubbles at the table.
Cook's Notes
- Use fresh lime juice for the cleanest flavor.
- Stir gently after adding sparkling water so the drink keeps its fizz.
- Make ginger syrup by simmering equal parts sliced ginger, sugar, and water, then strain and chill.
- For less sweetness, start with one ounce of ginger syrup total.