Boulevardier #3 Cocktail Recipe
Meet the Boulevardier. If you enjoy a Negroni, this is the whisky cocktail worth discovering next. Built with amaro and sweet vermouth, it shares the Negroni's bittersweet character, but swaps gin for Monkey Shoulder Original, creating a richer, smoother and more rounded serve.
The drink first appeared in Harry McElhone's Barflies and Cocktails, published in 1927, and was named after Erskine Gwynne, founder of The Boulevardier magazine. Since then, it has become a favourite among those who appreciate cocktails built on depth, balance and character.
Monkey Shoulder brings a smooth, approachable style to the serve. Notes of vanilla, honey and subtle spice round out the herbal bitterness of the amaro and complement the richness of the vermouth. The result is layered and full of flavour, with each ingredient contributing something distinctive.
Whether you're discovering classic cocktails for the first time or revisiting a familiar favourite, the Boulevardier rewards a slower approach. Thoughtfully balanced and straightforward to make, it's a serve that proves great cocktails don't need unnecessary complexity.
Ready to make your own? Discover how to mix a Monkey Shoulder Boulevardier below.
Intermediate
4 min
Short
Bar measure
Tin or mixing glass
Strainer
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Make it at home
Ingredients
Method
1
Add Monkey Shoulder, sweet vermouth and amaro to a mixing glass.
2
Add cold ice and stir until chilled and balanced.
3
Strain into a rocks glass over one big cube, or serve up if preferred.
4
Finish with orange zest.
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Bartender Tips & Tricks
Chill Your Glass
A chilled glass helps keep your Boulevardier at the right temperature for longer. Place it in the freezer while you prepare the cocktail for a colder, more consistent serve from start to finish.
Adjust the Whisky to Taste
For a more whisky-forward Boulevardier, increase the Monkey Shoulder slightly and reduce the vermouth and amaro. The result is a richer serve that brings more of the whisky's smooth malt character, vanilla notes and gentle spice to the forefront.
Stir, Don't Shake
Like a Negroni, the Boulevardier is best stirred. Stirring chills and dilutes the cocktail gradually while maintaining its texture and clarity, allowing the balance between whisky, vermouth and amaro to shine through.
Make the Most of the Orange Garnish
Before serving, gently twist the orange peel over the glass to release its natural oils. Run the peel around the rim and add it to the drink. The citrus aroma brightens the bittersweet profile and adds another layer of flavour to the serve.
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