Instructions

Prepare the Honey Syrup:

In a small bowl, mix together equal parts of honey and warm water until it forms a syrup. You can store any leftovers in the fridge for up to a week.

Juice the Lemon:

Squeeze half a lemon to get about 3/4 oz of fresh lemon juice. Avoid using bottled lemon juice for the best flavor.

Combine Ingredients:

In a cocktail shaker, add 2 oz of bourbon, 3/4 oz of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 3/4 oz of honey syrup.

Shake It Up:

Fill the shaker with ice, secure the lid, and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. This chills the drink while mixing the flavors.

Strain and Serve:

Using a strainer, pour the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice. You can also serve it straight up in a chilled glass if preferred.

Garnish:

For an extra touch, garnish with a lemon wheel or a sprig of mint. This not only adds visual appeal but also a hint of fresh aroma.

Variations

Smoky Gold Rush: Substitute bourbon with a smoky whiskey or scotch for a different flavor profile.

Herbal Twist: Add a few sprigs of fresh thyme to the shaker before shaking to infuse a herbal note.

Fruity Gold Rush: Add muddled fresh fruit like raspberries or blackberries to the shaker for a fruity twist.

Tips and Substitutions

Bourbon Alternatives: If bourbon isn’t your thing, rye whiskey works well, offering a spicier flavor.

Honey Alternatives: For those avoiding sugar, agave syrup or maple syrup can be used as substitutes.

Lemon Juice: If fresh lemon is not available, lime juice can be a great substitute, offering a slightly different tartness.