A HUG IN A GLASS MADE WITH CHAI, BOURBON, HONEY, & LEMON!
A Gold Rush– I’ll start by saying that this CLASSIC cocktail is my judge of character when visiting a new speakeasy. If they can make a bomb Gold Rush, then they’re a keeper in my arsenal of favorite bars. While the drink may seem very simple (my friends– we are talking three ingredients), I absolutely love the flavor meld of these distinct, bold ingredients that come together to create a silky smooth cocktail equal parts sweet, tart, and spice-forward.
Okay. Now that you've caught on to my deep love for a beautifully-made Gold Rush cocktail, you can probably gather that I don’t necessarily think this is a cocktail that needs much else.
I was delighted to be proven wrong after MUCH recipe testing and am thrilled to share my rendition of a Gold Rush with y'all on the blog today. It’s taken to the next level and amped up by a secret ingredient that honestly makes all other versions of Gold Rushes seem subpar. Yes, it’s that good.
The mystery ingredient? Chai concentrate!
The warmth that you feel from a neat glass of bourbon? That sweetness that you get from honey? Now...with some heat from a chai concentrate that is layered with so much GOOD spice? Y’all if you are going to make one cocktail this season, I really hope it is this one. Because why wouldn’t you want to drink a hug in a glass? And what’s even better knowing that you have most of these ingredients at home? Make it and be sure to tell me what you think by sending me a note or tagging me on @thetashmashup! Xo.
INGREDIENTS
1.5 oz chai concentrate, heated (I used The Chai Box)
1.5 oz bourbon (I used Maker's Mark® Private Selection)
0.75 oz of freshly squeezed lemon juice
0.50 oz/1 tablespoon of honey
Candied ginger, for garnish, optional but highly recommended
Cinnamon stick, for garnish, optional but highly recommended
DIRECTIONS
Combine honey and the hot chai concentrate until the honey is fully dissolved and incorporated. Depending on how many cocktails you’re making, you could also combine the honey and chai concentrate in a small saucepan on the stove at low-medium heat or heat it in the microwave to speed it all up in 15-second bursts. Once thoroughly combined, allow the honey-chai mixture to cool to room temperature before placing it into your cocktail shaker.
Next, fill your cocktail shaker with ice and add in your honey-chai mixture.
Then, add in your bourbon and lemon juice.
Shake for 20-30 seconds until nicely chilled. Strain into a lowball whiskey glass filled with crushed ice or a single large ice cube.
Finally, garnish with candied ginger and/or a cinnamon stick for the most festive cocktail this holiday season! Cheers!
~ Serves 1
Notes
I'd recommend using bourbon that you like the taste of alone. I know this may be a no-brainer but for some cocktails i.e. pina coladas/spiked cocoa, it's not necessarily an absolute must to LOVE the booze you're using on it's own. This does happen to be one of those cocktails in which that matters, so try to find a bourbon that you truly love. New to bourbon? I've got you! Here are some of my favorites (at all different price points): Maker's Mark, Four Roses, Old Forester, Bulleit, Eagle Rare, & Buffalo Trace are all great picks.
One of very favorite bars in D.C. made a mean Gold Rush and they always adorned it with their candied ginger that they made in-house. It was delightful and happens to be my preferred garnish but you can also garnish with a lemon peel or wheel!
Want it served hot? Put together all of the ingredients above and you've got yourself a chai hot toddy. And yes, I love it both ways but there's something about sitting next to a cozy fireplace with blankets with a cold beverage and this is the one for exactly that occasion.