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Brown Derby

The Quirky Foodster Team

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Coupe or rocks glass
Glass
Grapefruit twist
Garnish

Ingredients

  • Bourbon whiskey — 60 ml (2 oz)
  • Fresh grapefruit juice — 30 ml (1 oz)
  • Honey syrup — 15 ml (1/2 oz)

Method

  1. Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice.
  2. Shake until well chilled.
  3. Strain into a chilled coupe or over fresh ice.
  4. Garnish with a grapefruit twist.

Description: A bourbon sour built on grapefruit rather than lemon, giving it a bittersweet, slightly bitter edge.

Cultural Background: Named for the famous Brown Derby restaurant in 1930s Hollywood, a favorite watering hole of the era's film stars.

Tips: Fresh grapefruit juice is essential — the drink's whole appeal is that fresh, slightly bitter brightness.

Variations: A few dashes of Angostura bitters deepen the drink for a more complex pour.

Serving Suggestion: Serve up or over ice, either works well for this cocktail.

Nutrition: Approx. 170 kcal per serving

FAQs:

Q: Can I use bottled grapefruit juice?
A: Fresh is strongly preferred — bottled juice is often sweetened and lacks the same brightness.