Overview: Alia Ali for Mashed.com published an article on Aug 24, 2026, featuring Evan Flynn of Death & Co Denver. The piece outlines three primary strategies for crafting superior bourbon cocktails at home, emphasizing simplicity, alcohol content, and preparation method.
The Full Story
Flynn advises that many great bourbon cocktails are simple, containing only about three or four different components. A short ingredient list ensures there is very little for the bourbon to hide behind, allowing a good spirit to level up seemingly simple drinks. For mixers, options include Coca-Cola, amaro, and ginger beer. While experimentation is encouraged, flavors must pair well together, such as bitter amaro with sweet bourbon or ginger beer with spicy bourbon in the summer.
Regarding alcohol content, Flynn states that higher-proof bourbon will really punch through and showcase its inherent flavor when mixed. Products should be at least 45% ABV (90 proof). If a higher concentration is chosen, one must taste to ensure it does not overshadow other ingredients. Individual preferences remain paramount, as high-rye varieties may suit some palates while others might find them aggressively rich and spiced.
Production & Profile
Technical specifications play a crucial role in selection for mixing. Flynn advises selecting bourbons with at least 45% ABV (90 proof). As an example of a quality product suitable for home preparation, Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon is noted with 47% ABV and flavors of oak and spice. Generally, production methods on bottles near or below the $40 mark are better vetted than less expensive options. Extremely expensive bourbon nuances are often not best-suited for cocktails.
Brand & Industry History
The advice comes from Death & Co Denver, the Colorado branch of a popular series of cocktail lounges that originated in New York City. The location and origin provide context to the expert’s background in mixology and bar management.
What This Means
For consumers attempting home bartending, the guidance suggests prioritizing quality over complexity. Flynn notes that while one could order preferred drinks at a favorite bar, mixing at home requires specific selection criteria. He recommends shooting for bottles near or below the $40 mark for mixing at home. The production methods of these mid-tier bottles tend to be better vetted than the less expensive ones found on the bottom shelf.
Consumer Takeaway
The drinker is offered a clear path to elevated home mixology through three actionable rules. Select bourbons with at least 90 proof, prioritize stirring over shaking to preserve nuance, and limit ingredients to three or fewer components. Following these guidelines ensures that the spirit remains the focal point of the cocktail without being overshadowed by technique or excessive dilution.
Source: Read the original article
