Barsys
Boulevardier
About
The Boulevardier is a classic cocktail for those who prefer their drinks bold, balanced, and full of character. A close cousin of the Negroni, the Boulevardier swaps out gin for whiskey—resulting in a richer, warmer profile that’s both bitter and smooth. Made with bourbon (or rye), sweet vermouth, and Campari in equal parts, it’s a cocktail with backbone and sophistication.
Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or setting the tone for an elevated evening, the Boulevardier delivers a refined edge. It's the ideal blend of sweet, bitter, and spirit-forward—built for sipping, not rushing. The name may sound fancy, but the experience is all about well-crafted simplicity.
Shaken or Stirred? Stirred. Always. The Boulevardier is all spirits, and stirring preserves its clarity, silky texture, and balanced strength without dilution or aeration.
What You'll Need
For one Boulevardier cocktail:
- 0.75 oz Campari Italian Liqueur
- 0.75 oz Foro Rosso Vermouth di Torino
- 1.5 oz Russell's Reserve 10 Year Old Bourbon
- Ice
- Garnish: Lemon twist
Use high-quality whiskey and a robust vermouth for best results. A mixing glass and a chilled coupe or rocks glass are both fair game.
How to Make It
Prep time: 3 minutes
Skill level: Intermediate (but worth it)
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Add Campari, sweet vermouth, and bourbon.
- Stir gently for 25–30 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.
Barsys Tip: Opt for a rye whiskey if you prefer more spice and structure; bourbon gives Boulevardier a softer, rounder finish.
For the full recipe, download the Barsys App.
Tasting Notes
The Barsys Edge
The Boulevardier may be simple in structure, but its flavor depends on perfect balance. Barsys ensures every pour of whiskey, Campari, and vermouth is precise—no guesswork, no wasted ingredients. Just consistently well-executed cocktails, every time.
Sip Setting
The Boulevardier belongs in a dim-lit room, on a leather armchair, with music playing low. It’s made for sweater weather, long nights, and conversations that go deeper than small talk. Elegant, strong, and unshaken—like the best kind of company.
Garnish Game
An orange twist is traditional—bright and aromatic. Express the oils over the glass for extra depth. Feeling bold? A cherry adds a dessert-like finish, while a flamed peel leans smoky and dramatic.
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FAQs
Is the Boulevardier stronger than a Negroni?
Yes. The whiskey base adds more warmth and proof than gin, giving it a richer, stronger mouthfeel.
Which whiskey works best?
Bourbon offers a smoother, sweeter profile. Rye adds spice and structure. Try both to find your favorite.
Can I adjust the Boulevardier recipe?
Absolutely. For a whiskey-forward drink, go 1.5 oz whiskey to 0.75 oz each of Campari and vermouth.
Should I use sweet vermouth or dry?
Always use sweet vermouth in a classic Boulevardier. Dry vermouth alters the balance and softens the drink too much.
Does Barsys help with this cocktail?
Yes. Barsys delivers precise measurements—ideal when making multiple Boulevardiers or dialing in your preferred ratio with ease.