Two Unexpected Spring Cocktails

Lady Trudy Cocktail Recipe: A Champagne Cocktail with Old Forester Bourbon

My toxic trait is that every time someone tells me they don’t like one of my favorite things to eat or drink, I’m like, “BUT WAIT… Have you tried it like this??” While I’m sure my friends and family find it annoying, I mean it with the most love! I like to think I’ve developed a bit of an epicurean palette in my adult life. Champagne tastes on a beer budget, if you will. But no matter if you’re a champagne popper or a hops connoisseur, I’ve got a spring cocktail recipe for you!

When I attended the Kentucky Derby back in 2019, I thought I was going to embarrass myself when I saw a bourbon tasting on our itinerary for the weekend. “There’s no way I can sip bourbon,” I thought.  Fast forward to me now enjoying bourbon for the last few years, believe me when I say anything is possible.

It’s kind of like when you first tried Brussels sprouts as a kid when your grandmother boiled them and essentially served them raw. You hated them, right?! But the first time you tried them as an adult… Charred with a little balsamic vinegar or parmesan cheese? Or even with a little bacon? Mind blown, I’m sure.

Lady Trudy Cocktail Recipe: A Champagne Cocktail with Grapefruit, Ginger, and Old Forester Bourbon

So that’s why I’m here today folks… If you’re in the “I just don’t really like bourbon…” camp, I’m here to knock your socks off. If you prefer a champagne cocktail, boy-oh-boy do I have a recipe for you! (It’s SO good.) And if you’re a beer drinker, I’ve got the perfect shandy recipe you’ll be reaching for all summer long. Trust!

First up… Lady Trudy! If you like a French 75 (I mean, who doesn’t?!), you’ll love this fun, bubbly cocktail. Grapefruit and honey round out the vanilla-forward Old Forester Bourbon. Perfect for brunch, a bridal or baby shower, or simply soaking up those springtime vibes.

Lady Trudy Cocktail Recipe: A Champagne Cocktail with Grapefruit, Ginger, and Old Forester Bourbon

Lady Trudy

  • 1 oz Old Forester 86 Proof
  • 0.5 oz Grapefruit Juice
  • 0.5 oz Ginger Syrup
  • Top with Korbel Brut
  1. Shake first three ingredients with ice
  2. Strain into a flute or champagne coupe
  3. Top with Korbel Brut
  4. Garnish with lemon or a grapefruit peel – or both!

Lady Trudy Cocktail Recipe: A Champagne Cocktail with Grapefruit, Ginger, and Old Forester Bourbon

Next up… Your Not-So-Basic Shandy! If the beer you order is usually served with a lemon or an orange slice, you will adore this cocktail. Bright orange and clove notes elevate the Old Forester bourbon in this classic shandy with a twist.

How to Make a Shandy at Home: Hefeweizen, Bourbon, and Orange Juice

Not-So-Basic Shandy

  • 1 oz Old Forester 86 Proof
  • 0.5 oz Fresh Orange Juice
  • 0.5 oz Becherovka Liqueur
  • 4 oz Belgian White Ale or Hefeweissen
  1. Combine all ingredients in a glass
  2. Add ice and stir
  3. Garnish with orange peel
  4. Serve with a straw!

How to Make a Shandy at Home: Hefeweizen, Old Forester Bourbon, and Orange Juice

That’s IT! Each cocktail only has four ingredients, and each only has four very easy steps. Two easy-to-drink cocktails that will have your friends thinking you’re a mixology master all spring and summer long. I can’t wait to hear what you think of these!

Don’t forget to use code OLDFOJS to get $10 towards your purchase of Old Forester on Drizly. Cheers!

Code only valid on Drizly. Must be 21+. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Code valid when you purchase Old Forester (375ml +). Minimum purchase $19.00. Valid in CO, IL, DC, and FL. Rebate will automatically be applied towards order total or shipping or delivery fees. Includes orders of non-alcoholic items. Void where prohibited. Drizly Terms & Conditions apply.

This post was created in partnership with Old Forester and intended for audiences 21+. Thank you for supporting the brands and collaborations that make Bows & Sequins possible!

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