The Boulevardier Royale stands as the pinnacle of elegance and strength in the cocktail world. This luxurious drink fuses the rich, whiskey-forward soul of the original Boulevardier with the refined sparkle of champagne. The bold, warming notes of rye (or bourbon) whiskey blend seamlessly with sweet red vermouth and bitter Campari, all lifted to new heights by the champagne’s effervescence. It’s the perfect choice for those who crave the deep intensity of classic cocktails but enjoy a touch of sophistication and sparkle.
Story
The Boulevardier cocktail dates back to 1920s Paris, where American expatriate writer Erskine Gwynne first created it. Gwynne, founder of the literary magazine Boulevardier, was known to drink it regularly, and over time, it became a favorite in Parisian cafés and bars. The Boulevardier Royale, however, is a modern reinterpretation that adds a layer of luxury and refinement. It embodies cool elegance and depth — a fitting tribute to Gwynne’s bohemian spirit.
Ingredients
1 ¼ oz (35 ml) bourbon or rye whiskey
1 oz (30 ml) sweet red vermouth
1 oz (30 ml) Campari
2 oz (60 ml) champagne or prosecco
How to Make a Boulevardier Royale Cocktail
Pour the whiskey, vermouth, and Campari into a shaker filled with ice. Shake well for about 15–20 seconds to chill the drink, then strain it into a chilled glass. Finally, gently top it with champagne to highlight its sparkling character.
Serving and Garnish
The Boulevardier Royale is best served in a coupe or champagne glass. For garnish, twist an orange peel and rest it on the rim or drape it elegantly into the drink. Beyond its striking appearance, the citrus oils add a fresh, aromatic layer that beautifully complements the cocktail’s richness.
Calorie Content
A single serving of the Boulevardier Royale contains roughly 230 calories, primarily from the alcohol and natural sugars in the whiskey, vermouth, and champagne.