The first weekend in May belongs to the Mint Julep. But any other time than the Derby, many bourbon-loving Kentuckians keep their tipple simple. Branch water is just an old way of referring to water from a creek that branches from a larger river. Therein lies a more important truth—sometimes the best thing to mix with bourbon is just a very small amount of water. (Just ask any master distiller.) Water opens up bourbon, releasing more flavors. Try it: Pour an ounce of bourbon in a rocks glass. Give it a good sniff and a sip. Now, use an eye dropper to add a drop or two of water and test those senses again. Experiment concluded, pour more for proper sipping.
Drinks
Bourbon and Branch: A Cocktail for Kentucky
It doesn’t get much easier—or better—than this
Ingredients
-
2 oz. bourbon
¼ tsp. good-quality still water, or a single ice cube
Preparation
Combine. Sip slowly and savor.
Related Stories:
Recipe
Step inside the all-day affair—featuring lamb three ways and sides by the dozen—and get the Atlanta chef’s recipe for a spicy red pepper and feta spread
Recipe
Goode Company in Houston is serving up the perfect flame-kissed spring side
Trending Stories:
Food & Drink
Take it from a Southern steakhouse chef who swears that cast iron beats your trusty grill
Arts & Culture
Equal parts bodyguard and friend, Charleston Miles became an irreplaceable member of the late singer’s inner circle
Land & Conservation
These beautiful and rowdy little guests have descended on the South for the winter