Cocktail of the Month: Kentucky Buck
Spring is in full swing, and with it comes a cocktail that’s bold, refreshing, and just the right balance of sweet and spicy. Meet the Kentucky Buck—our Cocktail of the Month. A modern classic with a Southern twist, this bourbon-based cocktail is a perfect way to ease into warmer weather with a mix of fruit, spice, and depth.
Whether you’re hosting friends, winding down after a long day, or simply enjoying the sunshine, the Kentucky Buck offers a lively and flavorful experience that feels both comforting and invigorating.
What Is a Kentucky Buck?
The Kentucky Buck is a cocktail that blends bourbon, fresh strawberries, lemon juice, simple syrup, and ginger beer. It’s part of the “buck” family of cocktails—drinks that traditionally include a spirit, citrus, and ginger beer. The Kentucky Buck stands out by adding a fruity, slightly tangy kick from muddled strawberries, making it a go-to for those who like a whiskey cocktail with a refreshing edge.
Our Recipe
At Eight Oaks, we love showcasing our Straight Bourbon Whiskey in seasonal cocktails like this one. Its smooth, oaky base and notes of caramel and spice play beautifully with fresh fruit and ginger’s sharp bite.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Eight Oaks Straight Bourbon Whiskey
- ¾ oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- ½ oz Simple Syrup
- 1–2 Fresh Strawberries
- 2 oz Ginger Beer
- Dash of Angostura Bitters
How to Make It
- In a shaker, muddle the strawberries with the lemon juice and simple syrup.
- Add bourbon, bitters, and ice.
- Shake well and strain into a tall glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with ginger beer.
- Garnish with a strawberry or lemon wheel.
Tasting Notes
The Kentucky Buck is both familiar and surprising.
- Bright and Citrusy: The lemon juice cuts through the richness of the bourbon, adding a refreshing tang.
- Sweet and Spicy: The strawberries add subtle sweetness, balanced by the warmth of ginger beer and the complexity of bitters.
- Smooth and Sessionable: Thanks to the ice and ginger beer, this cocktail is crisp and light, making it a great choice for afternoon sipping.
Perfect Pairings
Pair the Kentucky Buck with foods that complement its bold yet balanced flavor.
- Grilled meats or BBQ chicken
- Strawberry and goat cheese salad
- Spicy shrimp or fish tacos
- Soft cheeses like brie or camembert
Its fruit-forward profile and spicy kick work well with savory, smoky, or slightly sweet dishes.
Why You’ll Love It
- A crowd-pleaser: It’s approachable for bourbon lovers and fruit-forward enough for those less familiar with whiskey.
- Perfect for spring and summer: Light, zesty, and refreshing.
- Easy to customize: Try swapping the strawberries for raspberries or using a flavored ginger beer for a fun twist.
Enjoy the Kentucky Buck at Eight Oaks
We’re shaking up the Kentucky Buck all month long in our tasting room. Stop by and sip one handcrafted by our bartenders, or grab a bottle of Eight Oaks Bourbon and try it at home. It’s the perfect cocktail to welcome the season—and toast to the return of longer days, good company, and great spirits.
Cheers to spring, strawberries, and bourbon done right.
