Barsys
Ruby Scrimmage
About
The Ruby Scrimmage cocktail is a bourbon drink that plays fast and clean. Inspired by the structure of a Paloma but built with American whiskey, it swaps tequila for Bulleit Bourbon and leans hard into citrus and carbonation. Fresh lemon juice brings sharp acidity, while grapefruit soda adds bitterness, lift, and a refreshing snap that keeps the drink light on its feet.
Bourbon might not be the obvious choice here, but that’s the point. The spice and oak from Bulleit cut through the citrus instead of fighting it, giving the drink structure without weight. Served tall over ice, Ruby Scrimmage is crisp, palate-cleansing, and easy to keep refilling. It’s designed for hot afternoons, loud screens, and moments when you want something refreshing without losing the backbone of a real cocktail.
Shaken or Stirred? Built. No shaking required. Building over ice keeps the drink bright and lively.
What You'll Need
For one Ruby Scrimmage Cocktail:
- 1.5 oz Bulleit Bourbon
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
Glass: Highball
Garnish: Lemon wedge and Grapefruit soda (to top)
Pro Tip: Use a dry, bitter grapefruit soda rather than a sweet one to keep the drink sharp and refreshing.
How to Make It
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Skill Level: Very easy
- Fill a highball glass with cubed ice.
- Add bourbon and fresh lemon juice over the ice.
- Top with grapefruit soda.
- Give a gentle stir to combine.
- Garnish with a lemon wedge.
Using Barsys Smart Cocktail Maker?
Barsys 360 Smart Cocktail Maker is perfect for Ruby Scrimmage. Load the bourbon and lemon juice, let Barsys pour precise ratios over ice, then finish with grapefruit soda and garnish. Fast pours, no over-acidic mistakes.
For the full recipe, download the Barsys App.
Tasting Notes
The Barsys Edge
Highballs fall apart when citrus gets heavy-handed. Barsys keeps the lemon tight and balanced, so the bourbon stays present and the grapefruit soda stays refreshing instead of sharp.
Sip Setting
Best for kickoff, backyard watch parties, sunny afternoons, or anytime you want a bourbon drink that doesn’t slow you down.
Garnish Game
A simple lemon wedge does the job. Give it a quick squeeze over the glass before dropping it in to wake up the citrus oils.
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FAQs
What is the Ruby Scrimmage cocktail?
A Paloma-style bourbon highball made with bourbon, lemon juice, and grapefruit soda.
Is this drink sweet?
No. It’s bright and lightly bitter, not sugary.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh is best. Bottled juice flattens the drink quickly.
Can I batch this cocktail?
Batch bourbon and lemon juice, then top with grapefruit soda per glass.
Can Barsys make this cocktail?
Yes. Barsys handles the bourbon and lemon perfectly - just add soda and garnish.