The Revolver Cocktail: A Tribute To An Album

how to make revolver cocktail recipe

The Revolver Cocktail, a modern classic, emerged in the early 2000s as a creation of visionary bartender Jon Santer.

While not as ancient as some cocktail counterparts, the Revolver has quickly become a favorite among cocktail lovers. Let’s delve into its brief but captivating history.

The Revolver Cocktail first came to life at the famous Bourbon & Branch bar in San Francisco. Jon Santer, the ingenious bartender behind the drink, aimed to craft a cocktail that celebrated the robust flavors of bourbon in a balanced and approachable manner.

Introduced around the mid-2000s, the Revolver was an instant hit, gaining popularity for its simplicity and the intriguing combination of bourbon and coffee liqueur.

The Revolver’s name pays homage to the influential album “Revolver” by The Beatles. Jon Santer, a music enthusiast, found inspiration in the album’s innovative and boundary-pushing nature, seeking to replicate those qualities in his cocktail creation.

The Revolver Cocktail embodies a perfect fusion of the smoothness of bourbon and the rich, aromatic qualities of coffee liqueur, creating a harmonious and memorable drinking experience.


Revolver Cocktail Ingredients

  1. Bourbon (60 ml / 2 ounces): The heart of the Revolver lies in the choice of bourbon. Opt for a high-quality bourbon with rich, caramel notes that will complement the other ingredients.
  2. Coffee Liqueur (15 ml / 0.5 ounce): Coffee liqueur adds depth and complexity to the Revolver, marrying the bold flavors of coffee with the smoothness of bourbon.
  3. Orange Bitters (2 dashes): Orange bitters contribute a subtle citrusy undertone, enhancing the aromatic profile of the cocktail without overpowering the other flavors.

Revolver Cocktail Recipe

Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Ingredients

Before you begin, ensure you have the necessary tools: a mixing glass, a stirring spoon, a jigger for precise measurements, and a chilled rocks glass. Also, have your bourbon, coffee liqueur, and orange bitters ready.

Step 2: Measure and Add Bourbon

  • In a mixing glass, measure 60 ml (2 ounces) of your chosen bourbon. Pour the bourbon into the mixing glass, laying the foundation for the cocktail’s rich and robust flavor profile.

Step 3: Add Coffee Liqueur

  • Measure 15 ml (0.5 ounce) of coffee liqueur and add it to the mixing glass with the bourbon. The coffee liqueur introduces a layer of complexity and a delightful coffee aroma to the Revolver.

Step 4: Add Orange Bitters

  • Add 2 dashes of orange bitters to the mixing glass. The orange bitters provide a subtle citrusy note that complements the other ingredients, adding a layer of sophistication to the cocktail.

Step 5: Stir with Ice

  • Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir the ingredients gently but thoroughly for about 15-20 seconds. Stirring ensures proper dilution and chilling without disrupting the silky texture of the cocktail.

Step 6: Strain into a Chilled Rocks Glass

  • Strain the stirred mixture into a chilled rocks glass filled with ice. The use of a rocks glass allows the Revolver to be enjoyed at a leisurely pace, sipping and savoring its nuanced flavors.

Step 7: Express Orange Peel Over the Cocktail

  • Take a fresh orange peel and express the citrus oils over the surface of the cocktail by giving it a gentle twist. Drop the peel into the glass for an added aromatic touch.

The Revolver – From Bourbon & Branch To You

The Revolver Cocktail stands as a testament to the ever-evolving landscape of mixology. From its modern inception at Bourbon & Branch to its status as a classic bourbon cocktail recipe, and invites enthusiasts to embrace a well-crafted drink.

Whether enjoyed in the ambiance of a cocktail lounge or stirred up at home as a moment of personal indulgence, the Revolver Cocktail beckons you to enjoy the flavour it brings.

Cheers to the art of making the best cocktails and the timeless allure of the Revolver!