The ice clinks against the heavy glass, the rich aroma of oak and vanilla rising from the amber liquid. You want to extend that moment, perhaps soften the edges, but not drown out the character of the bourbon itself. For that, nothing beats a quality ginger ale or ginger beer – it enhances, brightens, and refreshes without ever overpowering the spirit at its core. This is the mixer that consistently elevates a bourbon without masking its distinct personality.
Defining ‘Good’ in a Bourbon Mixer
When someone asks what’s good to mix with bourbon, they usually mean one of two things: something simple and refreshing for a casual drink, or an ingredient that complements the spirit for a more nuanced experience. The key distinction, often overlooked, is that a truly ‘good’ mixer shouldn’t just dilute the alcohol; it should work in harmony with bourbon’s sweet, spicy, and often oak-driven notes.
The Clear Winner: Ginger Ale & Ginger Beer
Ginger ale and ginger beer stand out as the premier choices for mixing with bourbon. Here’s why:
- Complementary Spice: The zesty, peppery kick of ginger naturally aligns with bourbon’s inherent spice notes (cinnamon, nutmeg, clove).
- Balanced Sweetness: Both mixers offer a sweetness that mellows bourbon’s alcohol bite without making the drink cloyingly sweet. Ginger beer tends to be more assertive in both sweetness and ginger intensity than ginger ale.
- Invigorating Carbonation: The bubbles lift the bourbon’s aromas and flavors, making for a brighter, more lively drink.
For a lighter touch, opt for a good quality ginger ale. For a more robust, spicier, and often sweeter drink, ginger beer is your go-to. Both create a perfectly balanced and immensely satisfying highball.
Other Worthy Contenders
Cola: The Ubiquitous Choice (With a Caveat)
Cola is undeniably popular, and for many, a bourbon and coke is a classic for a reason. Its caramel and vanilla notes can certainly harmonize with bourbon. However, cola’s strong, sugary profile often dominates, rather than complements, the bourbon. This is why it often gets a bad rap for masking the spirit. If you choose cola, opt for a higher-proof bourbon to stand up to the mixer, and consider a 1:2 or even 1:3 bourbon to cola ratio. Understanding how cola interacts with bourbon can help you choose the right blend to avoid simply drinking ‘sweet brown soda’.
Lemon/Lime Soda: For a Brighter, Zestier Mix
For those who prefer a crisper, more citrus-forward drink, lemon-lime sodas (like Sprite or 7-Up) can work well. The bright, tangy notes cut through the bourbon’s richness, offering a refreshing contrast. Be mindful of the sweetness level, as these can also quickly overwhelm a delicate bourbon.
Vermouth & Bitters: Stepping into Classic Cocktails
While not ‘mixers’ in the simple sense, these are essential components for classic bourbon drinks. Sweet vermouth (in a Manhattan) or a dash of aromatic bitters (in an Old Fashioned) elevate bourbon by adding layers of complexity, bitterness, and herbal notes. If you’re looking to expand your home bar skills beyond simple two-ingredient pours, exploring a wider range of liquor drinks can open up a whole new world of flavors.
The Myths & Misconceptions About Mixing Bourbon
One common misconception is that ‘good’ bourbon should never be mixed. This is a purist’s take that ignores the vast world of delicious cocktails and highballs. The truth is, even an excellent bourbon can be enhanced by the right mixer. The goal isn’t to hide a bad bourbon, but to create a new, balanced experience. Another myth is that only cheap bourbon should be mixed. While it’s true you might not want to use your most expensive, rare bottle for a highball, a mid-range bourbon often shines brightest when paired with a thoughtful mixer.
Final Verdict
When deciding what’s good to mix with bourbon, the definitive answer for a simple, enhancing mixer is a good quality ginger ale or ginger beer. It consistently offers balance, spice, and refreshment. If you’re after a different profile, a carefully balanced pour with cola can be satisfying, but always lean towards preserving the bourbon’s character. The best mix is the one that makes you glad you poured it.