Add bourbon, lemon juice, cherry syrup, and egg white (if using) to a cocktail shaker without ice.
Dry shake ingredients for 10-15 seconds to create foam from the egg white.
Add ice to the shaker and shake again for 15-20 seconds until well-chilled.
Double strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
Garnish with a Luxardo cherry.
For Cherry Syrup:
Combine cherries, sugar, and water in a saucepan.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
Strain and cool before using. Store in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
The egg white adds a silky texture and creates an attractive foam layer. Skip it for a simpler version.Fresh lemon juice makes a big difference in taste compared to bottled juice.Keep cherry syrup refrigerated in an airtight container.Try different bourbon brands to find your preferred flavor profile.Pre-chill glasses for best results.