Pomegranate Bourbon Cocktail Recipe – Thyme & Bitters Delight

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Pomegranate Bourbon Cocktail Recipe – Thyme & Bitters Delight

Introduction

Okay, friends, let me tell you about my new obsession! This Pomegranate Bourbon Cocktail is seriously everything. I first whipped this up last fall when I was craving something a little sophisticated, a little cozy, and bursting with flavor. The beautiful ruby red color is just stunning, and the combination of sweet pomegranate, smooth bourbon, and a hint of herbal thyme is… well, it’s magic in a glass! It’s perfect for a quiet evening in, a small gathering, or honestly, just because you deserve a delicious drink.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average cocktail. It’s a beautiful balance of flavors – the tartness of pomegranate, the warmth of bourbon, and the complexity of the bitters. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make! Seriously, you only need 5 minutes and a handful of ingredients. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and it feels special, even on a weeknight.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful drink:

• 4 oz (120ml) Pomegranate Juice
• 4 oz (120ml) Bourbon
• 2 oz (60ml) Sweet Vermouth
• 4 splashes Angostura Bitters
• 4 splashes Orange Bitters
• 2 stems Fresh Thyme
• Ice, as needed

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can really elevate this cocktail:

• Bourbon Varieties: Don’t be afraid to experiment! A higher-rye bourbon will give you a spicier kick, while a wheated bourbon will be smoother and sweeter. I personally love using a Kentucky straight bourbon for this.
• Pomegranate Juice Quality: Freshly squeezed is always best if you have the time, but a good quality, 100% pomegranate juice works wonderfully too. Avoid anything with added sugar.
• Bitters – Angostura & Orange: These are the secret weapons! Angostura bitters add depth and complexity, while orange bitters bring a bright, citrusy note. Don’t skip them!
• Fresh Thyme vs. Dried: Fresh thyme is a must here. The aroma is so much more vibrant. If you absolutely can’t find fresh, a tiny pinch of dried thyme will do in a pinch, but it won’t be the same.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get mixing!

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Don’t skimp on the ice – you want it nice and chilled!
2. Pour in the pomegranate juice, bourbon, sweet vermouth, Angostura bitters, and orange bitters.
3. Now, put the lid on tight and give it a really good shake for about 30 seconds. You want everything to be well-chilled and combined.
4. Strain the beautiful ruby-red mixture into two ice-filled old-fashioned glasses.
5. Finally, garnish each glass with a fresh sprig of thyme. And that’s it! Serve immediately and enjoy.

Expert Tips

A few little things I’ve learned along the way:

• Chill your glasses beforehand for an extra frosty cocktail.
• Don’t over-shake! You want it cold, not diluted.
• Taste as you go! Everyone’s palate is different, so adjust the bitters to your liking.

Variations

Want to make it your own? Here are a few ideas:

• Spice Level – Adjust Bitters: My friend, Priya, loves a little extra kick, so she adds an extra dash of Angostura.
• Sweetness – Adjust Vermouth: If you prefer a less sweet cocktail, reduce the sweet vermouth to 1.5 oz (45ml).
• Non-Alcoholic Adaptation: For a mocktail version, replace the bourbon with a strong brewed black tea (cooled) and use a non-alcoholic sweet vermouth alternative.
• Festive Garnish Ideas: For the holidays, try garnishing with a sugared cranberry and a rosemary sprig. So pretty!

Serving Suggestions

This cocktail pairs beautifully with dark chocolate, aged cheeses, or even a spicy Indian appetizer like samosas. It’s also fantastic on its own as a relaxing evening drink.

Storage Instructions

Honestly, this cocktail is best enjoyed immediately. But if you absolutely need to prep ahead, you can mix the pomegranate juice, bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters in a pitcher and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add ice and shake well before serving.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• Can I make this cocktail ahead of time? You can prep the liquid mixture, but it’s best to shake and serve fresh.
• What type of bourbon works best in this cocktail? A Kentucky straight bourbon is a great starting point, but feel free to experiment!
• Can I use fresh pomegranate seeds instead of juice? You could muddle a handful of seeds in the shaker, but it will change the texture of the cocktail.
• What is the purpose of orange bitters? They add a bright, citrusy complexity that complements the pomegranate and bourbon beautifully.
• How can I adjust the sweetness of this cocktail? Reduce the amount of sweet vermouth or add a squeeze of lemon juice.