The Kentucky Buck, a bourbon-based modern classic created by Erick Castro, co-owner of Polite Provisions and Raised by Wolves in San Diego, expands the horizons of the iconic Moscow Mule. This simple yet delightful drink of strawberry and ginger has gained widespread popularity since its introduction over a decade ago.
In 2008, Castro developed the Kentucky Buck while working at San Francisco’s Bourbon & Branch, aiming to craft a submission for the spring cocktail menu. Inspired by the abundance of in-season strawberries and the absence of bourbon-based drinks in classic cocktail books, he conceived a fruity twist on the traditional Buck.
After experimenting for several months, Castro had a breakthrough moment when he incorporated Angostura bitters. “Angostura enhances everything,” he notes.
Kentucky Buck Cocktail Ingredients
- 2 ounces (60 ml) bourbon
- 3/4 ounce (22.5 ml) fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 ounce (15 ml) simple syrup
- 2 strawberries (plus one for garnish)
- Ginger beer
- Ice cubes
Make the Best Kentucky Buck
- Muddle the strawberries: In a mixing glass, muddle 2 strawberries to extract their juices.
- Add bourbon: Pour 2 ounces (60ml) of bourbon into the mixing glass.
- Include lemon juice: Add 3/4 ounce (22.5 ml) of fresh lemon juice to the mix.
- Sweeten with simple syrup: Add 1/2 ounce (15 ml) of simple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
- Shake well: Fill the mixing glass with ice cubes and shake the ingredients vigorously.
- Strain into a glass: Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
- Top with ginger beer: Pour ginger beer over the mixture to fill the glass.
- Garnish with a strawberry: Add a fresh strawberry as a garnish to enhance the presentation.
The Kentucky Buck – Lay Back & Enjoy!
The drink’s irresistible flavor is undeniably its biggest draw, regardless of the ingredients available. “For a drink to achieve classic status, especially a modern classic, it needs to be adaptable,” explains Castro. With the Kentucky Buck, there’s plenty of flexibility. Whether it’s using a top-shelf or budget bourbon, opting for lemon or lime juice, or choosing homemade ginger beer over bottled, the possibilities are endless.
Castro even recalls encountering a version at dive bars comprising ginger beer, a splash of lemon juice, and a drizzle of strawberry liqueur. The recipe provided here features homemade ginger syrup paired with club soda, resulting in an exceptionally refreshing beverage. Although the Kentucky Buck may have originated as a springtime cocktail, its appeal knows no seasonal bounds.
Here’s to the art of the best cocktails and the enjoyment of the Kentucky Buck!
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