Allegheny Cocktail

Pro tips

• Chill your coupe glass before straining to keep the drink cold longer without dilution.
• Use fresh lemon juice—bottled juice will flatten the drink's brightness.
• Stir, don't shake, to maintain clarity and proper dilution without introducing excess air.
• Measure the blackberry brandy carefully; too much will oversweeten and mask the bourbon.

Substitutions

• Old Mr. Boston Bourbon → any standard 80-proof bourbon (e.g., Maker's Mark, Four Roses)
• Old Mr. Boston Blackberry Brandy → Chambord or crème de cassis (adjust sweetness to taste)
• Dry Vermouth → extra-dry vermouth for less sweetness

Storage & make-ahead

Mix to order; cocktails are best consumed immediately after preparation.

Equipment

cocktail shaker or mixing glass · bar spoon or long spoon · jigger or measuring glass · strainer (Hawthorne or julep) · coupe or martini glass

Can I substitute the blackberry brandy in an Allegheny Cocktail?

Yes. Chambord, crème de cassis, or blackberry liqueur work as substitutes, though they vary in sweetness and alcohol content.

Should an Allegheny Cocktail be served up or on the rocks?

Tradition favors serving it up (chilled and strained into a coupe), but on the rocks is also acceptable.

What type of bourbon works best for this cocktail?

A standard 80-proof bourbon like Old Mr. Boston is ideal; avoid high-proof bottlings that will overpower the vermouth and blackberry.

How do I balance the sweetness in an Allegheny Cocktail?

Use fresh lemon juice and measure carefully. The blackberry brandy and vermouth both add sweetness, so avoid adding simple syrup.

What's the best garnish for an Allegheny Cocktail?

A lemon twist or cherry complements the blackberry and bourbon notes without overpowering the drink.