Whiskey River Cocktail
David Ramirez
Updated on March 22, 2026
This cocktail gets its name from one of our favorite summer country songs, Willie Nelson's "Whiskey River." Sometimes whiskey can sound dark and heavy, but this cocktail has a real spring to it. Cardamom simple syrup adds sophistication, while a mix of citrus juices makes it refreshing.
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- Yields:
- 1 serving(s)
- Prep Time:
- 5 mins
- Total Time:
- 20 mins
Ingredients
- 1/2 c.
sugar
- 12
cardamom pods
- 2 oz.
bourbon
- 1 oz.
fresh lemon juice
- 1 oz.
fresh grapefruit juice
- 2
dashes Angostura bitters
Club soda, for serving
Directions
- Step 1Combine sugar, cardamom, and 1/2 cup water in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer, remove from heat, and whisk until sugar is dissolved. Cool completely; discard cardamom.
- Step 2Combine bourbon, lemon juice, grapefruit juice, bitters, 1 ounce cardamom syrup, and ice in a cocktail shaker. Shake until very cold, about 20 seconds. Serve over ice topped with a splash of club soda.
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