Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic35.7% ABV3 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Moderatestirred drink
Why: 3 ingredients, stirred drink, requires mixing glass, bar spoon
Best for: Seafood, Citrus Based Food, Aperitif
Ingredients & Tools
- 2.0 ozGinBase
- 2.0 ozTriple SecModifier
- 1 dashBittersModifier
Tools:mixing glassbar spoon
How to Make It
StirGarnish
- Stir with ice cubes and strain into cocktail glass.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.
- Add a twist of lemon peel and a cherry.GarnishGarnish changes aroma, presentation or final flavour impression.
Best For
Food Pairings
Diet & Lifestyle
Gluten-FreeVegetarian
Make it your way
Adjust this drink
Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the sugarCompare with drinks that use less estimated sugar per serve.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.
Swap notes
Base spiritGin swaps are risky — botanicals vary wildly. London Dry is drier and more juniper-forward; Old Tom is sweeter; sloe gin adds fruit. If you swap, stay within the same style and taste as you go.BittersAromatic bitters (like Angostura) add spice, clove and cinnamon warmth. Orange bitters are brighter and more citrus-forward. Peychaud's is lighter and more floral. Swapping between them changes the top-note character — use the same quantity and taste, adjusting by drops.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a Blue Bird?
- The Blue Bird is a cocktail made with 3 ingredients, traditionally served in a Cocktail Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 35.7%. A standard serving contains approximately 314 calories.
- What does a Blue Bird taste like?
- Blue Bird has a flavour profile featuring Citrus, Herbal, Botanical, Juniper. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a Blue Bird?
- Blue Bird pairs well with Seafood, Citrus Based Food, Herbal Food. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a Blue Bird?
- The Blue Bird has an ABV of approximately 35.7%. That's approximately 2.40 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 314 calories, 14.8g sugar, 17.8g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a Blue Bird typically served?
- Blue Bird is a popular choice for Aperitif, Happy Hour. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a Blue Bird?
- If you enjoy Blue Bird, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
- Can I make a Blue Bird at home?
- Yes. The Blue Bird uses 3 ingredients, making it easy to prepare at home. You will need a Cocktail Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
- How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
- Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of Blue Bird with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.