This one comes with a side of bloopers—and honestly, that’s part of the fun.
I thought I was set up and ready to film… and then realized I wasn’t. Instead of stopping, we decided to just roll with it. Real life, real kitchen, real cocktail. And if nothing else, this drink confirmed one important thing: I’m still not a bourbon girl.
That said… I’m committed. I’ll keep trying bourbon cocktails until I find the one that converts me.
And if you are a bourbon fan? You might absolutely love this one.
🥃 Why This Cocktail Works
The Brown Derby is a classic for a reason. The combination of citrus and honey softens the bourbon just enough, while still letting it shine. Using blood orange adds a slightly sweeter, more complex citrus note that feels special without being fussy.
It’s smooth, balanced, and ideal for:
- A cozy night in
- A winter dinner party cocktail
- Or anyone who loves a spirit-forward drink with a hint of brightness
And the thyme garnish? Optional—but highly recommended for a little extra aroma and elegance.
🍊 Blood Orange Honey Brown Derby
Makes 1 cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz fresh blood orange juice
- ½ oz honey
- Optional garnish: fresh sprig of thyme
How to Make It
- Fill a shaker with ice.
- Add bourbon, blood orange juice, and honey.
- Shake well until chilled, about 10–15 seconds.
- Strain into an ice-filled rocks glass.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme and serve immediately.
➡️ Make it Easy on Yourself with this Shortcut
🔹 Make it ahead in a pitcher by make 4 servings at once. Combine 8 ounces bourbon, 4 ounces blood orange juice and 2 ounces honey in a pitcher. Mix with a bar spoon. Add ice 3½ ounces of the mixture to a cocktail shaker and proceed with step 3.
🥂 The Takeaway
Not every cocktail has to be perfect—and not every spirit has to be your favorite. Sometimes the fun is in trying, experimenting, and laughing when things don’t go exactly as planned.
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Here’s to bloopers, honesty, and finding what you love one cocktail at a time! 🥃
Cheers,
Colleen 🥂
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