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Whiskey · Rickey · Sour

Bourbon Rickey Recipe

The Rickey's original spirit — before gin became the more common modern version.

Prep Time
1 min
Method
Stirred
Glass
Highball glass
Strength
Light

Every recipe on Sipped Right is tested for taste and balance before it's published.

Last updated September 20, 2026

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About the Bourbon Rickey

The Rickey format was originally a bourbon drink, tied to the 1880s Colonel Joe Rickey story, before gin became more commonly ordered in the 20th century.

Bourbon Rickey cocktail served in a Highball glass
Ingredients for a Bourbon Rickey: Bourbon, Fresh lime juice, Soda water laid out on a home kitchen counter

Ingredients

Servings
1
  • Bourbon2 oz
  • Fresh lime juice½ oz
  • Soda water~4 oz, to top

Method

  1. Fill a highball with ice.
  2. Measure and pour the bourbon and fresh lime juice into the glass.
  3. Top with soda water.
  4. Stir once to combine.
Stirring the Bourbon Rickey into a chilled highball glass
Close-up of the garnish on a Bourbon Rickey, expressed over the glass

Glass & Garnish

Highball glass, full of ice. Garnish with a lime wheel or wedge.

Notes

No sugar — the category's defining trait. Pairs well with light, salty snacks.

Tools Used

Affiliate links

JiggerBar spoonHighball glass

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