Liquid Sunshine in a Glass

From our very own Bobby Kegel. It’s Friday somewhere.

Ah, summer! The season of sunshine, long evenings, and refreshing drinks. Among the pantheon of summer cocktails, one stands out with its golden hue and delightful simplicity—the Gold Rush. If you’ve never had the pleasure of sipping this modern classic, allow me to introduce you to what I like to call “liquid sunshine in a glass.”

The Origin of the Gold Rush

Much like its namesake, the Gold Rush cocktail strikes gold in its simplicity. It was born in the early 2000s at the legendary New York bar, Milk & Honey. This cocktail is essentially a whiskey sour, but instead of simple syrup, it uses honey to add a rich, mellow sweetness that pairs beautifully with the boldness of bourbon.

The Recipe

Making a Gold Rush is as easy as one, two, three. Here’s the breakdown:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 3/4 oz honey syrup (1 part local honey to 1 part hot water)

Instructions:

1. Combine the bourbon, lemon juice, and honey syrup in a shaker filled with ice.
2. Shake vigorously until well-chilled.
3. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
4. Garnish with a lemon twist, if you’re feeling fancy.

The Local Honey Touch

Now, let’s talk about the star ingredient—honey. I like to use local honey for its unique flavor profile and added health benefits. Honey sourced from local bees not only supports local beekeepers but also may help with seasonal allergies. Plus, it just feels good knowing that the sweet nectar in your drink comes from the flowers around you.

Why the Gold Rush is Perfect for Summer

The Gold Rush is the quintessential summer cocktail. Its bright, citrusy notes are like a burst of sunshine, while the bourbon provides a warming contrast, making it perfect for those cooler summer nights. Whether you’re lounging on your porch, hosting a BBQ, or watching the sunset, a Gold Rush in hand makes the experience all the more enjoyable.

A Witty Sip of History

As you sip your Gold Rush, consider this: the original Gold Rush of the 19th century was all about the quest for wealth and adventure. Similarly, this cocktail offers a rich reward in its flavor and the simple adventure of making it. It’s a small treasure hunt that ends in a glass.

Final Thoughts

In a world full of complicated cocktails with hard-to-pronounce ingredients, the Gold Rush stands out with its straightforward elegance. It’s a drink that anyone can make, but everyone will enjoy. So, next time you’re in the mood for something refreshing, skip the complicated concoctions and strike gold with a Gold Rush.

Cheers to summer, sunshine, and the simple pleasures in life!