Amber Honey Bourbon Dream

Amber Honey Bourbon Dream
Jump to Recipe 👇

About This Recipe

Napa Valley, often hailed as the crown jewel of California's wine country, is renowned for its picturesque vineyards, world-class wines, and an unparalleled culinary scene. Amidst this, it's no surprise that we've birthed a concoction that's nothing short of poetic. Enter: the Amber Honey Bourbon Dream.

At the heart of this spirituous elixir is honey. But not just any honey – I'm talking about the rich, golden nectar harvested by local Napa apiaries. Their bees buzz amidst the wildflowers and grapevines, yielding a honey imbued with the essence of wine country. By gently toasting this honey, it awakens a deeper, caramelized flavor reminiscent of long Californian sunsets over the rolling Sonoma hills.

Bourbon is the sturdy backbone of this drink. While one might think of Kentucky as bourbon's home, Napa and Sonoma have entered the game, offering a refreshing take. Charbay Distillery, located in St. Helena, has been pioneering artisanal spirits since 1983, and their bourbon is nothing short of exemplary for this recipe.

Next, we incorporate the vibrant zest of burnt orange. California, after all, has a rich history of citrus agriculture. The act of charring the orange not only intensifies its flavor but evokes memories of bonfires and gatherings at local wineries, like those hosted by Silver Oak during harvest season.

The pièce de résistance? Vanilla. And not the generic kind. Think of a vanilla bean sourced from small-scale growers, infusing the bourbon with a delicate, aromatic essence. It's a nod to Napa's intricate balance between rusticity and sophistication.

So, how did this drink come into existence? It's a result of the melting pot that is Napa – a blend of its agricultural richness, the artistry of its winemakers and chefs, and the collective desire to experiment and innovate. The Amber Honey Bourbon Dream was conceived during a gathering of local culinary aficionados in a historic Sonoma barn, and it perfectly embodies the spirit of California's wine country.

But how does one pair such a unique beverage with food?

For starters, picture an appetizer of goat cheese and fig tartlets, the creamy tanginess and sweet fruitiness complementing the warmth of the bourbon. This could be followed by a main course of roasted duck with a cherry glaze – the richness of the meat harmoniously contrasting the burnt orange's citrusy notes. And for dessert? A Schramsberg brut rosé paired with a lavender-infused crème brûlée, an ode to the wildflowers that adorn Napa's landscape.

If you're visiting Napa or Sonoma and want to explore the flavors that inspired this drink, I'd recommend a stop at Oxbow Public Market in downtown Napa. Here, you can indulge in a plethora of local produce, cheeses, wines, and more, offering a smorgasbord of the region's best.

Napa isn't just about food and wine; it's about experiences. To truly understand the essence behind the Amber Honey Bourbon Dream, one must immerse themselves in the local culture. Take a vineyard tour, join a wine tasting, engage with the farmers at the local markets, or dine at one of the farm-to-table restaurants that sprinkle the region, like the revered Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch.

In essence, the Amber Honey Bourbon Dream is more than a drink; it's a journey. A journey through Napa's sun-kissed vineyards, its culinary heritage, and its unwavering spirit of innovation. Whether you're sipping it on a balcony overlooking the Valley or in a bustling city thousands of miles away, this drink is a ticket to the heart of Northern California's wine country. A true Napa dream.

Hero Ingredient Spotlight: Raw Honey

Raw honey is the star of the "Amber Honey Bourbon Dream" cocktail. Sourced directly from the diligent bees of Napa Valley, this unprocessed honey boasts rich flavors and numerous health benefits. Unlike regular store-bought honey, raw honey retains its natural vitamins, enzymes, and antioxidants. Its golden texture and sweet taste come from the wildflowers and grapevines of the valley. When toasted, raw honey unveils a caramelized depth, elevating the cocktail to an exquisite level.

Key Attributes of Napa Valley Raw Honey:

  • Rich in Nutrients: Contains antioxidants, enzymes, and minerals.
  • Natural Sweetener: Offers a healthier alternative to sugar.
  • Unique Flavor Profile: Imparts a deep, floral sweetness.

How to Perfectly Toast Honey

Toasting honey is a technique that heightens the natural flavors of the sweet nectar. Here's a step-by-step guide to get it right:

  1. Choose the Right Pan: Opt for a heavy-bottomed saucepan to ensure even heat distribution.
  2. Low and Slow: Heat the honey over a low flame to prevent it from burning.
  3. Constant Vigilance: Stir occasionally and keep a close watch. Honey can go from toasted to burnt quickly.
  4. Look for Color Change: The honey should turn a shade darker, indicating caramelization.
  5. Cool Down: After toasting, remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use regular honey instead of raw honey? While regular honey can be used, raw honey from Napa Valley brings a unique flavor profile, making the cocktail authentic and richer.
  2. How long can I store the infused bourbon? The bourbon mixture can be stored for up to a month in a cool, dark place. The flavor deepens over time, making it even more delectable.
  3. I'm allergic to oranges. What can I use as a substitute? Grapefruit or lemon can be used as an alternative. However, adjust the quantity to ensure the flavor isn't overpowering.
  4. Can I skip the vanilla bean? The vanilla bean adds a subtle aromatic essence. If unavailable, you can use a few drops of pure vanilla extract as a substitute.
  5. What's the best way to store leftovers? Store any leftover cocktail in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Shake well before serving.

Tips for Success

  1. Patience is Key: Letting the bourbon mixture infuse for the full 48 hours (or even longer) ensures a robust flavor profile.
  2. Quality Matters: Always choose high-quality bourbon. It forms the base of the cocktail and determines its overall taste
  3. Zest Right: When garnishing with orange zest, ensure you avoid the white pith, which can introduce a bitter taste.

Recipe Overview

Recipe:
Amber Honey Bourbon Dream
Author:
Lily Anderson
Season:
Fall
Yield:
8 servings
Calories Per Serving:
150
Prep Time:
PT15M
Cook Time:
PT5M
Total Time:
PT20M

Ingredients List

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of high-quality bourbon
  • 1/4 cup of raw honey
  • 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
  • 1 large orange
  • A pinch of sea salt
  • Ice, for serving
  • Orange zest, for garnish

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Toasting the Honey: In a small saucepan, gently heat the honey over a low flame. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes, just until it starts to darken and take on a rich, caramelized flavor. Remove from heat.
  2. Infusing the Bourbon: In a large glass jar, combine the toasted honey, bourbon, and vanilla seeds along with the bean. Seal the jar and give it a good shake. Allow this mixture to infuse for at least 48 hours in a cool, dark place. The longer it sits, the more pronounced the flavors will be.
  3. Preparing the Burnt Orange: Hold the orange over an open flame using tongs (or use a kitchen torch) until the skin becomes charred and the oils are released, turning to evenly char all around. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Once charred, set aside to cool.
  4. Cocktail Creation: Once the bourbon has been infused to your liking, remove the vanilla bean. In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 oz of the infused bourbon, a pinch of sea salt, and the juice of a quarter of the burnt orange. Shake well with ice.
  5. Serving: Pour the shaken mixture into a glass filled with ice, garnish with a strip of orange zest, and enjoy the harmonious fusion of flavors.

Share Your Results

Was it everything you dreamed it could be? Let me know how it turned out for you and share a picture on social media with the hashtag #LilyCooksNapa

Hello and welcome to Napa Home Chef! We're thrilled you're joining us to explore the vibrant world of wine country cooking. Our team has crafted bold, creative recipes inspired by Napa Valley's lush landscapes, bountiful harvests, and world-renowned wines. We hope you enjoy the journey with us!

Get ready to experience the rich flavors and unique culinary delights that embody the essence of wine country living. Happy cooking!

About Me

Don't miss a recipe!

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Coming soon - Cookbook!

Loving Napa Home Chef Recipes and wishing for more? Discover print exclusives!

Napa Recipe Cookbook: Napa Home Chef
Champagne Vinegar-Infused Artisanal Pickles
Squid Ink Spaghetti with Rock Shrimp, Calabrian Chili & Lemon Pangrattato
Chardonnay Steamed Mussels with Fresh Garden Herbs
Brie and Pear Grilled Cheese with Fig Jam on Sourdough Bread
Butternut Squash Soup with Apple Cider and Sage
Smoked Salmon-Dill Deviled Eggs
Ground Sirloin and Ricotta Lasagna Soup
Cardamom and Orange Blossom Pancakes with Honeyed Ricotta and Pistachios
Zinfandel Zesty Herb Steak Sauce
Chardonnay Infused Caramelized Onions
Smoked Salmon and Cucumber Bites with Dill Cream Cheese
Yucatán Midnight Tofu Al Pastor Tacos with Citrus Infusion

Mandatory (inedible) cookies. By using this website, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. View our Privacy Policy for more information.