From the Creator's Bar Book
Oak & Orchard Spritz
A festive, floral bourbon spritz topped with brut champagne. Low bourbon pour, elderflower as the bridge between oak and sparkling wine, kept dry and effervescent.
Ingredients
- Woodford Reserve bourbon1 ounce
- Fleur d'Été elderflower liqueur½ ounce
- fresh lemon juice1 teaspoon
- peach bitters2 dashes
- Reaper Brut Champagne2½ ounces
- thyme sprig1 each
Directions
Add bourbon, elderflower liqueur, lemon, and peach bitters to a wine glass. Add ice and stir briefly to combine and chill. Top gently with champagne, pouring down the side to keep the bubbles intact. Slap a thyme sprig between your palms and lay it across the top.
Notes
Woodford over higher-proof bourbon because its softer, floral profile won't bully the champagne. Bourbon stays at 1 oz on purpose — champagne and oak can clash, so elderflower links them. Build in the glass (no shaking) to protect the bubbles. If too dry, add a teaspoon of honey syrup before topping.