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Cocktails

Bourbon and Water

Served in a Old-Fashioned Glass

Reviewed by , Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic15% ABV2 ingredientsexcellent recipe
148 cal15% ABV1.50 US std0.0g sugar0.0g carbsAbout these numbers

Difficulty

Moderatestirred drink

Why: 2 ingredients, stirred drink, requires mixing glass, bar spoon

Best for: BBQ, Chocolate, BBQ / Cookout

Ingredients & Tools

  • 2.0 ozBourbonBase
  • 4.0 ozWaterMixer
Tools:mixing glassbar spoon

How to Make It

  1. Pour bourbon and water into old-fashioned glass.
  2. Add ice and a twist of lemon peel, if desired, and stir.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.

Best For

BBQ / CookoutWinter / Cozy

Food Pairings

BBQChocolateSteak

Diet & Lifestyle

Gluten-FreeLow-SugarVeganVegetarian

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.Match it with foodFind food pairings that complement the flavors in this drink.

Swap notes

Base spiritBourbon is sweeter with vanilla and caramel; rye is spicier and drier; Scotch adds smoke and malt. Each changes the character significantly — stay within the same family where possible.

Explore next

Cocktail recipesMocktail alternativesFood pairingsFlavors

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Frequently asked questions

What is a Bourbon and Water?
The Bourbon and Water is a cocktail made with 2 ingredients, traditionally served in a Old-Fashioned Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 15.0%. A standard serving contains approximately 148 calories.
What does a Bourbon and Water taste like?
Bourbon and Water has a flavour profile featuring Caramel, Oak, Spice, Vanilla. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
What food goes well with a Bourbon and Water?
Bourbon and Water pairs well with BBQ, Chocolate, Steak. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
How strong is a Bourbon and Water?
The Bourbon and Water has an ABV of approximately 15.0%. That's approximately 1.50 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 148 calories, 0.0g sugar, 0.0g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
When is a Bourbon and Water typically served?
Bourbon and Water is a popular choice for BBQ / Cookout, Winter / Cozy. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
What drinks are similar to a Bourbon and Water?
If you enjoy Bourbon and Water, 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 Bourbon and Water at home?
Yes. The Bourbon and Water uses 2 ingredients, making it easy to prepare at home. You will need a Old-Fashioned 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 Bourbon and Water 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.