Cocktail Art
Boulevardier
The Boulevardier is a sophisticated, bitter cocktail that swaps the gin in a Negroni for rich whiskey. It delivers a bold, warm flavor profile balanced by herbal sweetness and sharp bitterness, making it an excellent autumn or winter aperitif. The drink was famously created in the 1920s by writer Erskine Gwynne at Harry's New York Bar in Paris.
- GlassCocktail glass
- MethodShake
- Time3 min
- Strength≈ 24% ABV
How to make a Boulevardier
Shake it in a cocktail glass with ice cubes. About 3 minutes.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
- Pour the whiskey, sweet red vermouth, and Campari into the shaker.
- Shake well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled.
- Strain the drink into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.
Bartender’s tips
- For a traditional flavor profile, use Bourbon or rye whiskey as your base spirit.
- If Campari is too bitter for your taste, you can substitute it with Aperol for a lighter, sweeter profile.
- Chilling your cocktail glass in the freezer beforehand helps keep the drink cold since it is served without ice.
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If you enjoy the rich, whiskey-forward character of the Boulevardier, you might also want to try these four classic drinks.
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★ 4.6 · 584 ratingsBoulevardier questions
Which whiskey should I use for a Boulevardier?
You can use Bourbon for a sweeter, smoother flavor, or rye whiskey for a spicier, more robust profile.
How strong is a Boulevardier cocktail?
The Boulevardier is a spirit-forward drink with an alcohol content of about 24% ABV.
Can I use Aperol instead of Campari?
Yes, you can substitute Campari with Aperol if you prefer a less bitter and slightly sweeter cocktail.