How to Make a Boulevardier: A Sophisticated Twist on a Classic

For bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts, the Boulevardier is more than just a drink; rather, it serves as a lesson in balance, history, and artisanry. Often described as the whiskey-based cousin of the Negroni, this classic cocktail not only combines the richness of bourbon or rye but also incorporates the herbal bitterness of Campari along with the sweet depth of vermouth. Furthermore, what makes the Boulevardier truly special is its versatility. Consequently, it possesses a timeless appeal and offers endless opportunities for creativity behind the bar.

In this post, we’ll dive deep into the Boulevardier, exploring its history, breaking down its ingredients, and sharing advanced techniques to help you master this iconic drink. Whether you’re crafting it for a discerning guest or experimenting with your own variations, this post will give you the tools and inspiration to elevate your Boulevardier game. 

The History of the Boulevardier: A Drink Born in Paris

The Boulevardier has its roots in the glamorous expatriate scene of 1920s Paris. Specifically, it was created by Erskine Gwynne, an American writer and socialite who founded The Boulevardier, a monthly magazine for English-speaking expats. Moreover, Gwynne was a prominent figure in the expatriate community, and his magazine catered to the tastes and interests of Americans living abroad. Notably, the cocktail first appeared in print in Harry McElhone’s 1927 book, Barflies and Cocktails, and consequently, it quickly became a favorite among the cosmopolitan crowd.

What’s fascinating about the Boulevardier is how it reflects the spirit of its time. The 1920s were an era of innovation and experimentation in cocktails, and the Boulevardier is a perfect example of this creativity. By swapping gin for whiskey in a Negroni-style template, Gwynne created a drink that was both familiar and entirely new—a testament to the art of mixology.

Interestingly, the Boulevardier’s name is a nod to Gwynne’s magazine and the cosmopolitan lifestyle of the expatriate community in Paris. Furthermore, the term “boulevardier” itself refers to a man-about-town, specifically someone who frequents the fashionable boulevards of the city. This connection to the vibrant cultural scene of 1920s Paris not only adds an extra layer of sophistication and charm to the cocktail, hence the name Boulevardier, but also makes it not just a drink, but a symbol of an era defined by elegance, creativity, and a sense of adventure.

The Boulevardier cocktails ingredients: A Deep Dive 

The Boulevardier’s cocktail magic lies in its simplicity: just three ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating a harmonious balance of flavours. Let’s break them down. 

Whiskey

The choice of whiskey is where the Boulevardier truly shines. Specifically, the classic recipe calls for either bourbon or rye, and each brings its own unique character to the drink. For instance, bourbon adds a smooth sweetness, along with notes of caramel and vanilla, which contributes a rich depth that beautifully balances the bitter vermouth and Campari, ultimately creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Conversely, rye whiskey is known for its spicier and more robust profile; it injects a bold kick that elevates the cocktail, thereby providing a striking contrast to the sweetness of the other ingredients.

– Bourbon: With its notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak, bourbon adds a smooth, rich base. 

  – Recommended Brands: 

• Buffalo Trace – A versatile, high-quality bourbon with a balanced flavour profile. 
•   Woodford Reserve – Offers depth with notes of dried fruit and spice. 

-Rye Whiskey: Rye’s spicier, more robust profile makes it an excellent choice for a bolder Boulevardier cocktail. 

  – Recommended Brands: 

•   Rittenhouse Rye – High-proof and full of peppery, cinnamon notes. 
•   Sazerac Rye – Smooth and well-balanced, with hints of citrus. 

Pro Tip: Experiment with other whiskeys, like smoky Scotch or Irish whiskey, to create unique variations. 

Campari

Campari is the defining ingredient that gives the Boulevardier its signature bitterness. Made from a secret blend of herbs, spices, and fruit, this vibrant red liqueur adds complexity and a refreshing bite. Its bitterness cuts through the sweetness of the vermouth and the richness of the whiskey, creating a perfectly balanced cocktail. 

Pro Tip: For a twist, try substituting Campari with other Amari, such as Averna or Montenegro, to explore different bitter profiles. 

Sweet Vermouth

Sweet vermouth is a fortified wine infused with botanicals like herbs, spices, and roots. It adds depth, richness, and a touch of sweetness to the Boulevardier. 

  – Recommended Brands: 

•   Antica Formula – A premium vermouth with notes of vanilla, caramel, and dried fruit. 
•   Dolin Rouge – A lighter, more delicate choice with hints of cherry and spice. 

Pro Tip: Store your vermouth in the fridge and use it within a month to keep its freshness. 

The Science of Balance: Why the Boulevardier Cocktail Works

The Boulevardier is a masterclass in balance. Here’s how its ingredients interact: 

• -Bitterness from the Campari – Cuts through the sweetness and adds complexity. 
• -Sweetness from the Vermouth – Complements the bitterness and adds richness. 
• -Strength from the Whiskey– Provides a robust base and ties everything together. 

Now that you understand the ingredients, let’s put it all together. Here’s how to craft the perfect Boulevardier: 

Modern Variations and Riffs of a Boulevardier Cocktail

The Boulevardier is a versatile cocktail that lends itself to experimentation. Here are a few popular riffs to try: 

• Smoky Boulevardier – Replace the whiskey with a peated Scotch for a smoky, complex twist. 
• White Boulevardier – Substitute sweet vermouth with Blanc vermouth for a lighter, more herbal profile. 
• Amaro Boulevardier – Swap Campari for another amaro, such as Averna or Montenegro, to explore different bitter flavours. 

Behind the Bar 

As a bartender, the Boulevardier is a fantastic addition to your repertoire. Here’s how to make the most of it.

The Boulevardier isn’t just a cocktail—it’s a versatile tool for elevating your bar program and delighting your guests. To begin with, start by positioning it strategically on your menu. Furthermore, highlight its unique identity as a “whiskey-based Negroni” or a “classic with a rich history” to pique curiosity. Additionally, place it alongside other whiskey-forward or bitter cocktails like the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, or Negroni to create a cohesive section for adventurous drinkers. Moreover, use seasonal marketing to your advantage: pitch it as a warming winter sipper or, alternatively, a year-round favorite with its refreshing bitterness.

When it comes to upselling, the Boulevardier is a bartender’s dream. Recommend it to guests who enjoy whiskey, bitter flavors, or are simply looking to try something new. Use descriptive language to sell its flavor profile: “It’s rich and bold, with a perfect balance of sweet, bitter, and strong.” For whiskey lovers, suggest it as a sophisticated alternative to their usual order. For Negroni fans, frame it as a whiskey-based twist on a classic. If you’re feeling creative, offer a whiskey cocktail flight featuring the Boulevardier, Old Fashioned, and Manhattan to encourage exploration and increase sales.

Batching the Boulevardier is a game-changer for events or high-volume service. Combine whiskey, Campari, and sweet vermouth in a large bottle using a 1.5:1:1 ratio, then store it in the fridge to keep freshness. When it’s time to serve, stir the batched mixture with ice to chill and dilute it, then strain into individual glasses. Garnish with an orange twist for a polished finish. This approach saves time without sacrificing quality, making it perfect for busy nights or private parties.

 Conclusion

The Boulevardier is more than just a cocktail—it’s a celebration of balance, history, and creativity. By understanding its ingredients, mastering its techniques, and experimenting with modern variations, you can elevate your bartending skills and impress your guests with this timeless classic.  So, the next time you’re behind the bar, take a moment to craft a Boulevardier with care. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or put your own spin on it, this drink is sure to delight. Cheers to the Boulevardier—a true masterpiece in a glass! 

We’d love to hear from you! What’s your favourite Boulevardier variation? Do you prefer bourbon or rye? Share your creations and tips in the comments below or tag us on social media with your Boulevardier photos. Let’s build a community of cocktail enthusiasts who appreciate the art of a well-crafted drink. If you are a fan of timeless classic whiskey cocktails make sure to check out my other posts like How to make an Old Fashioned and How to Make a Manhattan.