Barsys
Red Zone
About
The Red Zone cocktail is made for moments when the game slows down and the drink deserves your full attention. Built on Bulleit Bourbon, this cocktail leans dark, rich, and deliberate. Cherry juice brings deep fruit character without tipping into sweetness, while maple syrup adds warmth and weight rather than sugar rush.
This isn’t a flashy crowd-pleaser or a quick chug. It’s designed for fans who like to sip between plays, appreciate balance over brightness, and want something that feels grown-up without being fussy. Served over a single large cube, Red Zone stays cold, controlled, and steady - just like the best fourth-quarter drives.
Shaken or Stirred? Stirred. Stirring keeps the texture smooth and preserves the bourbon’s structure while letting the cherry and maple settle in naturally.
What You'll Need
For one Red Zone Cocktail:
- 2 oz Bulleit Bourbon
- 1 oz cherry juice
- 0.5 oz maple syrup
- 1 Large Ice Cube
Glass: Rocks glass
Garnish: Cherry
Pro Tip: Use real maple syrup, not pancake syrup. The difference shows immediately in depth and finish.
How to Make It
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Skill Level: Easy
- Add bourbon, cherry juice, and maple syrup to a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir for about 30 seconds until well chilled and properly diluted.
- Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
- Garnish with a cherry.
Using Barsys Cocktail Machine?
Barsys 360 Cocktail Maker is perfect for the Red Zone cocktail. Load your bourbon and maple syrup, let Barsys handle precise pours, then add cherry juice and stir. For spirit-forward drinks like this, accuracy makes all the difference.
For the full recipe, download the Barsys App.
Tasting Notes
The Barsys Edge
With only three ingredients, small overpours can quickly turn the Red Zone cocktail too sweet or too thin. Barsys keeps the ratios locked in, so the bourbon stays dominant and the cherry-maple balance remains smooth and intentional - every single time.
Sip Setting
Ideal for game nights, late evenings, or any moment when the drink should match the seriousness of the score.
Garnish Game
A single cherry is all you need. Classic, restrained, and perfectly on theme.
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FAQs
What is the Red Zone cocktail?
A bourbon-based cocktail featuring cherry juice and maple syrup, stirred and served over a large cube.
Is the Red Zone cocktail sweet?
No. It’s rich and rounded, with controlled sweetness balanced by bourbon warmth.
Can I batch this cocktail?
Yes. Batch the ingredients, keep chilled, and stir individual servings over ice.
Is this a good game-day cocktail?
Absolutely - especially for fans who prefer sipping over slamming drinks.
Can Barsys make this cocktail?
Yes. Barsys ensures perfect pours, which is crucial for spirit-forward builds like the Red Zone cocktail.