Ever take a sip of your favorite bourbon and think, “This needs something more?” You’re not alone! Bourbon’s rich, warm flavors are fantastic neat, but sometimes you crave a twist. The real challenge begins when you stand in front of the shelf packed with juices, sodas, and bitters. How do you pick the perfect partner without drowning that beautiful whiskey taste?
Choosing the wrong mixer can ruin a good bourbon experience. Too sweet, and you mask the caramel notes. Too tart, and you fight the whiskey instead of complementing it. We all want that balanced, refreshing drink, but navigating the sea of possibilities feels overwhelming and often leads to expensive mistakes.
This post cuts through the confusion. We will explore the best mixers that truly elevate your bourbon. You will learn simple rules for pairing and discover delicious, easy-to-make cocktails. Get ready to unlock new layers of flavor in your favorite spirit. Let’s dive in and find your perfect bourbon match!
Top Mixer For Bourbon Recommendations
No. 1
Strongwater Old Fashioned Craft Cocktail Mixer Sample 4 Pack - Makes 16 Cocktails - Handcrafted Old Fashioned Gift Set - Travel-Friendly, No Artificial Sweeteners - Just Mix with Bourbon or Whiskey
- 4 Award-Winning Flavors – This handcrafted cocktail syrup sampler set brings home the magic of 4 bold blends: Classic, Maple Pecan, Espresso & Smoked. Each cocktail syrup is a SIP Awards Platinum winner (2025) & Good Food Awards finalist (2019)
- Crafted for Sipping Moments – Made in the Colorado Rockies, these small-batch cocktail syrups feature organic cherries, orange peel & warm spices, and are free from artificial flavors or sweeteners. Each cocktail syrup adds depth, warmth & balance
- Make 16 Bar-Quality Cocktails – Each 1 oz bottle makes 4 drinks. Just mix with whiskey or bourbon over ice. Whether you’re hosting or relaxing solo, this cocktail syrup set turns everyday pours into old fashioned perfection in seconds
- Gift-Ready, Travel-Size Delight – This cocktail syrup set makes a memorable gift for home bartenders, holiday hosts & flavor explorers. Compact, elegant & versatile, it’s the perfect way to discover your favorite old fashioned cocktail syrup
- Simple to Mix, Hard to Forget – Add ice, a splash of cocktail syrup & your spirit of choice for a smooth, satisfying cocktail. These premium cocktail syrups also shine in mocktails for a zero-proof option that still feels special
No. 2
Bittermilk No.1 Bourbon Barrel Aged Old Fashioned Mix - All Natural Handcrafted Cocktail Mixer - Old Fashioned Syrup - More Complex than Bitters & Simple Syrup
- HANDCRAFTED BY BARTENDERS - Made by bartenders with real ingredients. The complex flavors in the craft cocktail mixer pair with aged spirits, like bourbon or rye whiskey, or even aged rum, scotch & other dark spirits.
- AWARD WINNER - Bittermilk No.1 Old Fashioned was the drink category winner of Garden & Gun magazine’s prestigious “Made in the South” Awards in 2013, and the product line has won 7+ Specialty Food Association’s SOFI Awards, including Outstanding Product Line and Best Cold Beverage.
- BOURBON BARREL AGED - Unique from other old fashioned mixes, Bittermilk old fashioned syrup is aged in freshly emptied, once-used Willett bourbon barrels to add complexity and allow the flavors intensify as it takes on notes of bourbon and charred white oak.
- SIMPLE TO USE - Just add booze. Stir 1 Part Bittermilk No.1 to 4 Parts Spirit with lots of ice, and garnish with an orange peel. The most complex and perfect old fashioned made at home with just two ingredients. Adjust the ratio recipe to your taste, and mix with your spirit of choice. Mixes best with aged spirits. Makes 17 or more cocktails per bottle.
- NO ARTIFICIAL INGREDIENTS - More than just bitters! We’ve taken classic bittering agents, like gentian root and cinchona bark, along with freshly milled spiced, burnt golden cane sugar and fresh orange peel, and slowly aged it all in bourbon barrels.
No. 3
Strongwater Old Fashioned Mix - Makes 32 Cocktails - Handcrafted Old Fashioned Syrup with Bitters, Orange, Cherry, Organic Demerara Sugar - Craft Cocktail Mixer, Just Mix with Bourbon,Whiskey - 1 Pack
- HANDCRAFTED COCKTAIL: Enjoy the perfect Old Fashioned every time with Strongwater’s refined recipe. Well-balanced, roundly smooth & layered, this is the perfect addition to your bar cart for an old fashioned cocktail kit.
- SIP AWARDS WINNER: Our Old Fashioned mix was nationally recognized as a 2025 SIP Awards Platinum winner, an elevated example of cocktail mixers.
- ORGANIC CHERRIES & ORANGE ZEST: Tart organic cherries and fresh orange peel mixed with the perfect blend of cinnamon, clove, cardamom, and bitter herbs create the best Old Fashioned drink mixer.
- POUR AND ENJOY: Fill your glass with ice, add Strongwater Old Fashioned craft cocktail syrup, then add the whiskey, bourbon, or rye of your choice. Be sure to check out our Old Fashioned bitters, like classic cherry bitters or orange bourbon bitters. Stir it up & there you have it - the perfect Old Fashioned!
- NO-NONSENSE: This flavored cocktail mix is non-GMO & gluten-free. Contains no alcohol. Best used within 3-4 months of opening.
No. 4
Barsmith Old Fashioned Mix - Classic Whiskey Drink Mixer w/Sweetness, Cherry, Citrus & Bitters - Premium Non-GMO Drink Mixer - Perfect for Bourbon Cocktails & Home Bars - 12.7 oz Bottle (Pack of 1)
- Classic Bar-Quality Taste at Home: Barsmith Old Fashioned Mix is a premium cocktail mixer that brings the authentic taste of a classic Old Fashioned to your glass; This expertly crafted Old Fashioned mixes delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness, making it an ideal choice for whiskey lovers; Whether you're a beginner or an experienced mixologist, this cocktail mix ensures a smooth, flavorful drink every time, perfect for any occasion
- Perfect Flavor Profile: Barsmith Old Fashioned Mix offers a well-rounded taste profile with the flavor intensity; This cocktail mixer blends cherry, citrus, and bitters to create a smooth, rich taste, making it the ideal Old Fashioned mix for whiskey lovers; Whether you use it as a bar mix or for classic Old Fashioneds, it adds depth and complexity without overpowering your drink
- Made with Quality Ingredients: Made with water, pure cane sugar, and honey, delivering a naturally sweet, smooth flavor; Infused with natural flavors and colored with vegetable juice, this cocktail mixes provides an authentic taste without artificial additives; Free from GMOs, this Old Fashion mix is perfect for those who value clean, high-quality drink mixers crafted with simple, wholesome ingredients
- Mix it Your Way: This Old Fashion cocktail mix is perfect for more than just classic Old Fashioneds; use it as an alcohol mixers for a variety of whiskey-based drinks or as an Old Fashion mixer for bourbon; Whether you’re crafting a traditional cocktail or experimenting with new recipes, this mix enhances any drink with its smooth, authentic flavor, making it a must-have for your home bar
- Package Details: Barsmith Old Fashioned Mix - 12.7 oz Bottle (Pack of 1)
No. 5
Bittermilk Bourbon Barrel Aged Manhattan Mix - All Natural Handcrafted Cocktail Mixer - Manhattan Cocktail Mix - Just Add Whiskey, Makes 17 Cocktails
- HANDCRAFTED BY BARTENDERS - Made by bartenders with real ingredients. The complex flavors in the craft cocktail mixer pair with aged spirits, like bourbon or rye whiskey, or even aged rum, scotch & other dark spirits.
- AWARD WINNING RECIPE - Using Bittermilk’s award-winning No.1 Bitter Formula found in our best selling Bourbon Barrel Aged Old Fashioned, this non-alcoholic Manhattan elixir was created to impart the flavors of Vermouth without the alcohol. Using our own herbal and botanical base and alcohol-removed port wine, combined with grapes, raisin, cherry and our No.1 Bitter Formula for subtle, aromatic bittersweetness. A bit of citrus peel and vanilla round out the flavors of the classic Manhattan cocktail.
- BOURBON BARREL AGED - Unlike any other Manhattan cocktail, Bittermilk Manhattan cocktail syrup is slowly aged in freshly emptied, once-used Willett bourbon barrels to add complexity and allow the flavors intensify as it takes on notes of bourbon and charred white oak.
- SIMPLE TO USE - Two ingredients only make one amazing cocktail. Just add booze for a cocktail. Stir 1 Part Bittermilk Manhattan mix + 4 Parts Rye or Bourbon with lots of ice. Strain, serve up in a stemmed glass, and garnish with a brandied cherry. The most complex and perfect Manhattan cocktail made at home with just two ingredients. Adjust the ratio recipe to your taste, and mix with your spirit of choice. Mixes best with aged spirits.
- ALL NATURAL INGREDIENTS - Using the Bitter Formula No.1 found in our award-winning Bourbon Barrel Aged Old Fashioned, we’ve taken classic bittering agents, like gentian root and cinchona bark, along with freshly milled spiced, burnt golden cane sugar and fresh orange peel, and slowly aged it all in bourbon barrels. Non-Alcoholic Port Wine, cherries, raisins and grapes, vanilla and a hint of citrus peel, create a balanced cocktail or mocktail layered with complexity.
No. 6
Bittermilk Single Serve No.1 Bourbon Barrel Aged Old Fashioned Mix – Old Fashion Kit – Cocktail Bitters Set - Mini Cocktail Mixers - Each Bottle Makes One Cocktail - 5-Pack
- HANDCRAFTED BY BARTENDERS - Made by bartenders with real ingredients. The complex flavors in the craft cocktail mixer mix with aged spirits, like bourbon or rye whiskey, or even aged rum, scotch & other dark spirits
- AWARD WINNER - Bittermilk No.1 Old Fashioned was the drink category winner of Garden & Gun magazine’s prestigious “Made in the South” Awards in 2013, and the product line has won 7+ Specialty Food Association’s SOFI Awards, including Outstanding Product Line and Best Cold Beverage.
- BOURBON BARREL AGED - Unique from other old fashioned mixes, Bittermilke old fashioned syrup is aged in freshly emptied, once-used Willett bourbon barrels to add complexity and allow the flavors intensify as it takes on notes of bourbon and charred white oak.
- EACH BOTTLE MAKES ONE COCKTAIL - Just add to 2oz of bourbon or rye whiskey. Makes five on-the-go old fashioned drinks from the cocktail box set.
- NO ARTIFICIAL INGREDIENTS - We’ve taken classic bittering agents, like gentian root and cinchona bark, along with freshly milled spiced, burnt golden cane sugar and fresh orange peel, and slowly aged it all in bourbon barrels.
No. 7
Barsmith Old Fashioned Mix - Classic Whiskey Drink Mixer w/Sweetness, Cherry, Citrus & Bitters - Premium Non-GMO Drink Mixer - Perfect for Bourbon Cocktails & Home Bars - 12.7 oz Bottles (Pack of 6)
- Classic Bar-Quality Taste at Home: Barsmith Old Fashioned Mix is a premium cocktail mixer that brings the authentic taste of a classic Old Fashioned to your glass; This expertly crafted Old Fashioned mixes delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness, making it an ideal choice for whiskey lovers; Whether you're a beginner or an experienced mixologist, this cocktail mix ensures a smooth, flavorful drink every time, perfect for any occasion
- Perfect Flavor Profile: Barsmith Old Fashioned Mix offers a well-rounded taste profile with the flavor intensity; This cocktail mixer blends cherry, citrus, and bitters to create a smooth, rich taste, making it the ideal Old Fashioned mix for whiskey lovers; Whether you use it as a bar mix or for classic Old Fashioneds, it adds depth and complexity without overpowering your drink
- Made with Quality Ingredients: Made with water, pure cane sugar, and honey, delivering a naturally sweet, smooth flavor; Infused with natural flavors and colored with vegetable juice, this cocktail mixes provides an authentic taste without artificial additives; Free from GMOs, this Old Fashion mix is perfect for those who value clean, high-quality drink mixers crafted with simple, wholesome ingredients
- Mix it Your Way: This Old Fashion cocktail mix is perfect for more than just classic Old Fashioneds; use it as an alcohol mixers for a variety of whiskey-based drinks or as an Old Fashion mixer for bourbon; Whether you’re crafting a traditional cocktail or experimenting with new recipes, this mix enhances any drink with its smooth, authentic flavor, making it a must-have for your home bar
- Package Details: Barsmith Old Fashioned Mix - 12.7 oz Bottles (Pack of 6)
No. 8
Master of Mixes Handcrafted Cocktail Mixers for Bourbon and Whiskey, Ready to Use Bundle, Pack of 3 Flavors
- A WHISKEY DRINKER'S MUST-HAVE: Variety Pack includes Master of Mixes Manhattan, Old Fashioned, and Whiskey Sour drink mixes (33.8 Fl OZ/1L Each)
- 3 CLASSIC, SCRATCH COCKTAIL RECIPES: MANHATTAN - Slightly sweet cherry, with vermouth notes and hints of bitters | OLD FASHIONED - Tangy orange and sweet cherry notes, rounded out by touches of herbs and spices from the bitters | WHISKEY SOUR - Juicy and fresh lemon with a soft balance of tartness and sweetness.
- INSPIRING COCKTAILS: Master of Mixes Cocktail Mixers make the world’s most popular cocktails using only the finest ingredients.
- READY TO USE: Simply add your favorite bourbon, whiskey, or rye to create the most perfectly balanced traditional whiskey cocktails. Or, add your favorite spirit and get creative with a new recipe.
- PERFECTLY PACKAGED: 3-pack of 1L bottles (33.8 fl oz) of each drink mix flavor comes boxed for safe shipping
Choosing Your Perfect Bourbon Mixer: A Buying Guide
Bourbon is fantastic on its own. But sometimes, you want to mix it up! A great mixer makes your bourbon cocktail shine. This guide helps you pick the right tool for the job.
Key Features to Look For
When buying a mixer for bourbon, think about what you plan to make most often.
- **Capacity:** How much liquid do you need to mix at once? Small mixers work for one drink. Large ones handle parties.
- **Power/Speed Settings:** Simple mixers have one speed. Better ones offer multiple speeds. High speeds are good for crushing ice. Lower speeds gently blend ingredients.
- **Ease of Cleaning:** Nobody likes sticky messes. Look for parts that dishwasher safe. Smooth surfaces wipe down easily.
- **Noise Level:** Some mixers sound like small airplanes taking off. Quieter models improve your mixing experience.
Important Materials Matter
The materials used affect durability and how your mixer performs.
Jar Material:
- **Glass Jars:** These look classy and do not absorb smells or flavors. They are heavy, though. Dropping them breaks them easily.
- **Tritan or BPA-Free Plastic Jars:** These are lighter and very tough. They resist shattering if you accidentally knock them over.
Blade Material:
Always choose stainless steel blades. Stainless steel stays sharp. It resists rust. Dull blades tear up ice instead of crushing it smoothly.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Good quality mixers create better drinks. Poorly made ones cause frustration.
What Makes a Mixer Better?
- **Strong Motor:** A powerful motor handles thick ingredients like peanut butter or frozen fruit easily. Weak motors strain and overheat.
- **Good Sealing Lid:** A tight lid stops liquid from spraying everywhere when you blend. A secure seal is crucial for high-speed mixing.
- **Stable Base:** Heavy rubber feet keep the mixer steady on the counter. Wobbly mixers jump around during use.
What Reduces Quality?
Cheap plastic gears wear out fast. Thin motor housing can vibrate too much. If the controls feel flimsy, the mixer might not last long.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use your mixer.
Bourbon Use Cases:
- **Classic Cocktails (Old Fashioned, Manhattan):** These often need light stirring or very gentle mixing. A simple mixing glass and spoon might work better than a powerful blender.
- **Frozen Drinks (Bourbon Slushies, Frozen Whiskey Sours):** These demand power. You need a strong blender capable of crushing large amounts of ice smoothly.
- **Infusions or Syrups:** If you make complex syrups using fruit or herbs, a high-speed blender helps break down solids thoroughly before mixing with the bourbon.
For everyday use, look for a simple, easy-to-handle design. If you plan to make fancy frozen treats often, invest in a more powerful, heavy-duty machine.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Bourbon Mixers
Q: Do I really need a special “bourbon mixer”?
A: No. You need a good blender or shaker. The term “bourbon mixer” just means a tool good for making bourbon-based drinks.
Q: Can I use a regular kitchen blender for bourbon cocktails?
A: Yes, most standard blenders work fine for simple drinks. However, dedicated cocktail blenders often have smaller jars better suited for single servings.
Q: What is the best tool for making a perfect Old Fashioned?
A: For an Old Fashioned, you actually want a mixing glass and a long spoon. You stir it gently to chill and combine; you do not blend it.
Q: Should I worry about plastic leaching into my bourbon?
A: If you buy quality mixers, the plastic parts that touch the liquid are usually BPA-free. Glass is the safest option if you worry about plastic interaction.
Q: How loud are most bourbon mixers?
A: Blenders vary greatly. High-powered models are loud, especially when crushing ice. If noise is a concern, read reviews specifically mentioning sound levels.
Q: Is a manual shaker better than an electric mixer for bourbon?
A: They serve different purposes. Shakers chill and combine spirits and juices. Electric mixers crush ice for frozen drinks.
Q: How do I clean the blades after mixing fruity bourbon drinks?
A: Fill the jar halfway with warm water and a drop of dish soap. Run the mixer for 30 seconds. Rinse well. This cleans most residue.
Q: Do I need a very powerful motor just for whiskey sours?
A: If you like them on the rocks, a standard 300-500 watt blender is usually enough. If you make them frozen, aim for 700 watts or more.
Q: What size jar is best for a home user?
A: A 48 to 64-ounce jar is standard for general use. Smaller personal blenders (around 16 ounces) are great if you only make one drink at a time.
Q: Can I use my mixer to make simple syrup?
A: Yes! You can use a mixer to quickly dissolve sugar into hot water to make syrup faster than stirring by hand.