The fact that National Bourbon Day is smack in the middle of the summer just adds to the proof that this brown spirit is very much a twelve-months-a-year drink. It’s good on a hot day, in muggy weather, during a rainstorm, while snowed in, or under your desk in an air-conditioned office in the middle of a really bad work day. Regardless of what the temperature is outside, these three drinks will make you very happy on June 14th, or any other day of the year.

Lemon Mint Julep

2 ounces Four Roses Bourbon

¾ ounce lemon mint simple syrup

¼ ounce lemon juice

Sprig of fresh mint

Directions

Begin with chilled ingredients to prevent the ice in your silver cup from melting too rapidly. Fill your cup with crushed ice (if you can pound down what your refrigerator provides you with, even better!). Add the Four Roses followed by the lemon mint simple syrup, and lemon juice. Garnish with a fresh sprig of mint and serve!

Lemon Mint Simple Syrup

Combine a peeled lemon, a cup of mint leaves, a cup of sugar, and a cup of water in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then simmer for 15 – 20 minutes. Remove from the heat and strain into a sealable container. Allow the mixture to cool before using in your cocktail recipe. After use, refrigerate for up to ten days.

Manhattan in June

2.5 ounces Four Roses Bourbon

¾ ounce PAMA Pomegranate Liqueur

2-3 dashes Angostura Bitters

½ ounce lemon juice

Directions

Fill a martini shaker with ice, then combine the Four Roses, PAMA, Angostura, and lemon juice. Shake for a few seconds to mix, then strain into a martini glass. Garnish with a cherry and serve.

Cherry Bourbon Joe

¾ ounce Four Roses Bourbon

½ Heering Cherry Liqueur

4 -5 ounces medium roast coffee

Cream *optional

Directions

In your empty coffee mug, combine the Four Roses and Heering. Add some freshly brewed, piping hot coffee and serve!

Recipe provided by Jordan Catapano