Whiskey · Buck · Spicy
Kentucky Buck Recipe
Bourbon's warmth meets fresh strawberry and a bright ginger snap.
- Prep Time
- 2 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
About the Kentucky Buck
Created by bartender Erick Castro in 2009, first published in Saveur's Drink Issue #1 with the story "Nice Spice." Now widely considered a modern classic.
Ingredients
- Fresh strawberry1, hulled and chopped
- Fresh lemon juice¾ oz
- Simple syrup½ oz
- Bourbon2 oz
- Angostura bitters2 dashes
- Ginger beer~2 oz, to top
Method
- Add the fresh strawberry to the shaker.
- Muddle with the fresh lemon juice and simple syrup.
- Measure and pour the bourbon and Angostura bitters into the shaker.
- Add a scoop of ice to the shaker.
- Shake for 15 seconds.
- Fine-strain the cocktail into an ice-filled glass.
- Top with ginger beer and stir briefly.
Glass & Garnish
Highball glass, full of ice. Garnish with a lemon wheel.
Notes
Created by bartender Erick Castro in 2009 at Bourbon & Branch, San Francisco; first published in Saveur's Drink Issue #1. Adjust bitters to taste. Pairs well with barbecue or grilled food.
Tools Used
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