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–+ servings

The Seelbach Cocktail

The Seelbach Cocktail Recipe
A classic Louisville-born Champagne cocktail that blends bourbon, orange liqueur, and two kinds of bitters—finished with a lively pour of dry sparkling wine.
John
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Serving Size 1 cocktail

Equipment

  • Mixing glass
  • Bar spoon
  • Jigger
  • Strainer
  • Champagne flute

Ingredients

  • 1 oz bourbon
  • 0.5 oz Cointreau or orange liqueur
  • 7 dashes Angostura bitters
  • 7 dashes Peychaud’s bitters
  • 4 oz Champagne or dry sparkling wine, chilled
  • 1 twist orange peel garnish

Instructions

  • Fill a mixing glass with ice.
  • Add bourbon, Cointreau (or orange liqueur), and both bitters.
  • Stir gently for about 10 seconds to chill without diluting excessively.
  • Strain into a chilled Champagne flute.
  • Top slowly with chilled Champagne or dry sparkling wine to preserve bubbles.
  • Garnish with an orange twist and serve immediately.

Notes

Use a smooth, mid-proof bourbon for balance. Brut Champagne or a dry Prosecco/Cava works well; avoid sweeter styles. Serve promptly to enjoy peak effervescence—no ice in the glass.