Seelbach recipe
A sophisticated Kentucky classic marrying robust bourbon, aromatic bitters, and effervescent Champagne.
Method: Stir ·
Glass: Coupe glass ·
Time: 5 min ·
Difficulty: Advanced ·
Family: Modern Classics
Ingredients
- 1 oz Bourbon (Preferably high-proof, such as Old Forester)
- 0.5 oz Cointreau (Or premium triple sec)
- 7 dashes Angostura bitters (Distributed evenly)
- 7 dashes Peychaud's bitters (For complex herbal spice)
- 5 oz Champagne (Chilled dry brut or sparkling wine, to top)
How to make a Seelbach
- Add the bourbon, Cointreau, and both Angostura and Peychaud's bitters into a mixing glass with cracked ice.
- Stir gently for 20 to 30 seconds to chill and dilute the spirits properly.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled champagne flute or coupe glass without ice.
- Top carefully with chilled dry Champagne, allowing the effervescence to integrate the bitters.
- Garnish with a long, thin strip of orange peel, expressing the oils over the surface of the drink.
Garnish
a long, thin strip of orange peel, expressing the oils over the surface of the drink
Pro tip
Measure carefully, keep the dilution controlled, and serve Seelbach as soon as it is cold and balanced.
History of the Seelbach
Though long marketed as a pre-Prohibition recipe discovered in 1917 at Louisville's legendary Seelbach Hotel, historical research revealed it was actually created around 1995 by hotel bartender Adam Seger. Despite its modern invention myth, the Seelbach has firmly established itself as a modern classic across American cocktail bars.
Flavour profile
Boozy, Sweet, Bitter, Citrus
Variations
- Irish Seelbach — Substitute Irish whiskey for bourbon and prosecco for Champagne for a lighter, orchard-fruit profile.
- Rye Seelbach — Replace bourbon with high-rye whiskey to add a pronounced spicy backbone that cuts through the rich bitters and sparkling wine.
- Reposado Seelbach — Swap bourbon for artisanal reposado tequila, introducing agave warmth and subtle oak notes to the sparkling citrus foundation.
Practise making the Seelbach in the free Virtual Bar game.