Cocktail
Seelbach
How to make a Seelbach - the elegant champagne cocktail of bourbon whiskey, sparkling wine and a hearty dose of bitters. A rediscovered Louisville classic.
5 minPrep time
mediumDifficulty
Champagne fluteGlass
1Serving(s)
The Seelbach is an elegant champagne cocktail that combines the warmth of bourbon with sparkling wine and a surprisingly generous dose of bitters. The result is a complex, festive drink with fine bubbles. Perfect for special occasions and lovers of champagne cocktails with character.
Instructions
- Add bourbon, orange liqueur and both bitters to a mixing glass.
- Stir briefly without ice to combine the aromas.
- Pour the mixture into a chilled champagne flute.
- Carefully top up with dry sparkling wine.
- Express an orange zest over the glass and drop it in.
Garnish: Orange zest
Pro tip: The unusually high amount of bitters is the secret of the Seelbach - it gives the drink depth without dominating, as the sparkling wine balances the aromas.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the Seelbach come from?
The Seelbach was attributed to the hotel of the same name in Louisville, Kentucky, and was long considered a historic recipe before being rediscovered as a modern creation.
Which sparkling wine works best?
A dry brut sparkling wine or champagne works best, as the fine acidity balances the intense bitter spice of the cocktail.
Can I reduce the amount of bitters?
The high dose of bitters is characteristic of the Seelbach, but you can reduce it to four or five dashes each for a milder taste.
Ingredients
- Bourbon whiskey3 cl
- Orange liqueur (Triple Sec)1.5 cl
- Angostura bitters7 dashes
- Peychaud's bitters7 dashes
- Dry sparkling wine or champagne10 cl
- Orange zest1 piece
