How To Make A Gold Rush Cocktail

Whisky cocktails are often associated with winter, but the Gold Rush is the perfect summer sipper. A twist on the classic whisky sour, it’s made with honey and lemon, giving it an aesthetic gold hue – hence the name. So where did this tipple come from, and how can you create your own at home?

Gold Rush Cocktail: History, Tips Recipe

What Is A Gold Rush Cocktail?

A Gold Rush is a whisky-based drink made with whisky (usually bourbon), honey syrup and lemon. The honey gives it a slight sweetness, which pairs well with the smooth nuttiness of the bourbon and tart, tangy lemon flavour. Think Bee’s Knee’s meets Whisky Sour.

Milk and Honey, London

Who Invented The Gold Rush Cocktail?

Like many great cocktails, the Gold Rush originated in New York City – specifically at the now-closed bar Milk and Honey. Founded by Sasha Petraskel, the beloved spot was famous for having no set menu, meaning customers could come in and order whatever drink took their fancy. As the story goes, back in the early 2000s, a man named T.J. Siegal popped in one evening to order his usual Whisky Sour, asking to take out the egg and replace the classic syrup with honey. This was apparently the beginning of the Gold Rush.

What Type Of Whisky To Use

A Gold Rush works best with a good-quality bourbon – nothing too old as the taste may overpower the other ingredients. 

Which Glass To Serve It In

Serve in a rocks glass, also known as an Old Fashioned glass, with cubes of ice.

Gold Rush Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients:

• 50ml bourbon
• 25ml fresh lemon juice
• 25ml honey syrup (blend this with a little water using a 1:1 ratio so it mixes more easily)
• Lemon wheel for garnishing

Method:

1. Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and shake well. 
2. Strain into rocks glass filled with ice or large cube. 
3. Garnish with a lemon peel or full lemon wheel.