Watch CBS News

Best Bourbon Cocktails In Orange County

bourbon cocktail whiskey 610 shutterstock_460990901
(credit: shutterstock)

A decidedly American libation, bourbon must contain at least 51 percent corn by law. Distilleries produce a variety of bourbons, many of which are perfect for sipping and savoring. In 2007, Congress even declared September to be "National Bourbon Heritage Month." In Orange County, you can find mixologists who know how to blend this American beverage in the right proportions, creating some fun and tasty cocktails. To honor this popular spirit, make sure to sample the following bourbon cocktails in September or any other month of the year.

bosscat kitchen --
(credit: Bosscat Kitchen)

Larceny Bourbon
Bosscat Kitchen & Libations
4647 MacArthur Blvd.
Newport Beach, CA 92660
(949) 333-0917
www.bosscatkitchen.com

One cannot go into Bosscat without trying their incredible cocktail menu with tons of bourbon drinks. With a whiskey tasting room containing selections from all over the world, it's obvious this place is serious about their bourbon. Bosscat's bourbons are great for sipping, but take some time to sample the creative output of their mixologists. Their larceny bourbon cocktail features buttery carameland honeyed notes, with a rich mouth feel and a long finish.

old man and the sea  - blind rabbit
(credit: Blind Rabbit)

The Old-Man & The Sea
The Blind Rabbit
440 S Anaheim Blvd.
Anaheim, CA 92805
www.theblindrabbit.com

When going out, many people want a nice blend of bourbon and diet soda in their glass. The Blind Rabbit in Anaheim mixes things up a bit. They serve an interesting combination of bourbon, rum and smoked glass called "The Old-Man & The Sea." The bartenders at this OC speakeasy also make "Milk Punch," which blends the bourbon with pineapple, lemon and milk. Hungry for breakfast? Try the bourbon, maple syrup and bitters combination called a "Bacon Old-Fashioned."

Related:  Best Cocktail Happy Hours In OC

mint julep drink alcohol
(credit: istockphoto)

Mint Julep
Kettlebar
2493 Park Ave., Suite 41
Tustin, CA 92782
(714) 258-8160
www.kettlebar.com

The Mint Julep has long been associated with the Kentucky Derby and New Orleans, but it's not a drink that comes to mind when stepping up to the bar. With just bourbon, water, powdered sugar and mint leaves as ingredients, it seems deceptively simple to make, but not everyone can make a good one. The Mint Julep served at the Kettlebar gets high marks from patrons and goes very nicely with the spirit of their Cajun/Creole menu.

blind donkey
(credit: Blind Donkey)

Old Fashioned
The Blind Donkey
149 Linden Ave., Suite B100
Long Beach, CA 90802
(562) 247-1511
www.theblinddonkey.com

There are lots of new and innovative drinks, but sometimes the best are the classics. The response on Yelp to the Blind Donkey's Old Fashioned range from "the best in town" to a drink that has the kick of a mule. Some may think the Old Fashioned is, well, old-fashioned, but that's not the case at this Long Beach establishment.

Related: Best Places In Orange County For Whiskey

Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Steven Bryan calls Irvine, California his home. A freelance writer for more than 20 years, he has interviewed a wide range of notable celebrities, including a variety of up-and-coming musicians and artists as well. Passionate about movies and comic books, he also makes an annual pilgrimage to the San Diego Comic-Con.
View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.