PitMaster’s Boulevardier (Bourbon) - (21+)

Pitmaster’s Boulevardier

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By the Fire

A Boulevardier isn’t here to charm you — it’s here to challenge you. Bourbon, Campari, vermouth: bold, bitter, no apologies. But if you give it just one nod to the pit — a smoked orange peel — suddenly the bite softens into something deeper.

That curl of smoke on the nose reminds you of ribs resting on the cutting board, of coals glowing steady under the grate. It doesn’t tame the drink — it ties it to the fire, making it feel like it belongs on the same table as the meat.

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Ingredients

• 1 oz bourbon

• 1 oz Campari

• 1 oz sweet vermouth

• Smoked orange peel, for garnish

• Ice

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PitMaster’s Way

Step 1 — Stir it Bold

Add bourbon, Campari, and vermouth to a mixing glass with ice. Stir until the glass feels chilled in your hand.

Step 2 — Pour it Strong

Strain into a rocks glass over a large cube.

Step 3 — Smoke the Garnish

Hold an orange peel over flame until the oils spark, then express it over the glass. Let it smolder for a breath before dropping it in.

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Hosting Notes

✦ For flair: Present the flaming orange peel as you serve — it earns silence before the sip.

✦ For garnish: Add a single smoked cherry alongside the orange for a hint of sweetness.

✦ For elevation: Use a high-rye bourbon for extra bite to match the bitterness.

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Pitmaster’s Pour

Want to add bark to the bite? Fat-wash your bourbon with Boston butt drippings. The pork fat and rub spice fold into the spirit, turning this Boulevardier into something that tastes like it’s been pulled right from the smoker. Bitter, smoky, savory — it’s BBQ in cocktail form.

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From the Porch

This one fits the late fall evenings when the pit still smolders but coats are pulled tighter against the chill. Plates are cleared, a brisket knife rests on the board, and the fire throws its last heat toward the table. The smoked orange peel mingles with the smell of wood, and the glass feels like the close of a chapter — bold, strong, the kind of drink that matches the bark on the meat.

 

These recipes are intended for adults of legal drinking age (21+ in the United States; please follow the laws in your region). Fire up the grill, not the driver’s seat. Stoking the Coals encourages moderation, community, and safe enjoyment of food and drink. Please never drink and drive, and always respect your health, your guests, and the law.