Barsys
Boulevardier
About
The Boulevardier cocktail is the whiskey lover’s answer to the Negroni. First poured in the 1920s at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris, it was created for Erskine Gwynne, an American writer and socialite who published a magazine called The Boulevardier. The drink swapped gin for whiskey, giving it a richer, warmer profile without losing the signature bitter-sweet balance.
It’s a slow sipper - strong, complex, and layered. The whiskey brings warmth and depth, Campari adds that unmistakable bitter bite, and sweet vermouth ties it all together with herbal, slightly sweet notes. Ideal for cooler evenings or when you want a cocktail with presence.
Shaken or Stirred? Traditionally stirred to keep it silky smooth, but can be shaken lightly if you prefer a slightly more aerated, frothy edge.
What You'll Need
For one Boulevardier cocktail:
- 40 ml whiskey (bourbon or rye)
- 30 ml Campari
- 30 ml sweet vermouth
Optional garnish: An expressed orange twist for aroma, or a brandied cherry for a sweeter touch.
Pro tip: Chill your glass before serving - a Boulevardier drink is best when it stays cold from first sip to last.
How to Make It
Prep time: 5 minutes
Skill level: Easy - it’s all about balance
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add whiskey, Campari, and sweet vermouth.
- Shake lightly or stir until well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with an orange twist or brandied cherry.
Using Barsys?
Load whiskey, Campari, and sweet vermouth into your Barsys 360 Cocktail Maker, set your exact ratios, and let the machine deliver perfectly measured pours. You just stir or shake and garnish - the flavor balance stays spot on every time.
For the full recipe, download the Barsys App.
Tasting Notes
The Barsys Edge
One extra splash of Campari or vermouth can throw the balance off - Barsys ensures precise measures every time so the Boulevardier always tastes exactly as it should.
Sip Setting
A fireside companion, an after-dinner sipper, or the drink you nurse slowly while enjoying good conversation.
Garnish Game
Keep it simple with a wide orange twist expressed over the drink. For a sweeter twist, drop in a brandied cherry.
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FAQs
Is a Boulevardier just a whiskey Negroni?
Yes, it swaps the gin in a Negroni for whiskey, creating a warmer, richer profile.
Which whiskey works best?
Bourbon for sweetness, rye for spice. Both work beautifully.
Can I serve it over ice?
Yes, a large ice cube in a rocks glass works great if you prefer it slightly diluted over time.
Can I batch Boulevardiers?
Absolutely. Combine whiskey, Campari, and vermouth in a bottle, chill, and pour as needed.
Does Barsys work for this drink?
Yes. Load each ingredient, let Barsys handle exact measures, and focus on stirring, straining, and garnishing.