Bourbon Bastard
A bourbon-centric interpretation of the classic Suffering Bastard, a legendary hangover cure born in World War II Cairo. This potent and restorative cocktail balances bourbon, gin, lime, bitters, and ginger beer in a complex interplay of spirits and refreshing elements.
11%
ABV
medium
Difficulty
collins
Glass
Flavor Profile
History & Heritage
“The Bourbon Bastard is a bourbon-centric interpretation of the Suffering Bastard, invented in 1942 by bartender Joe Scialom at the Shepheard's Hotel in Cairo, Egypt. Created specifically as a hangover cure for Allied soldiers during World War II, the original was reportedly called "The Suffering Bar Steward." The drink's fame grew rapidly, with soldiers allegedly sending telegrams requesting large quantities for the front lines. The bourbon version maintains the spirit-forward character while replacing some of the gin with America's native whiskey.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Combine bourbon, gin, fresh lime juice, and Angostura bitters in a cocktail shaker
Fill the shaker with ice
Shake vigorously for 12-15 seconds until well-chilled
Strain into a Collins glass or Tiki mug filled with fresh ice
Top with chilled ginger beer
Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and an orange slice
Serve immediately
Glassware
Served in a Collins glass or Tiki mug over ice
Garnish
Spank or clap between hands before placement to release oils
Fresh orange wheel
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
out of 10
Sour
out of 10
Bitter
out of 10
Strong
out of 10
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Use high-quality, spicy ginger beer - not ginger ale
Ensure all ingredients are well-chilled before mixing
Don't stir vigorously after adding ginger beer to preserve carbonation
Equal parts bourbon and gin create the complex base essential to the drink
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Bourbon Bastard.
Lime-Forward
Increase lime juice to equal parts with the spirits for a tarter version.
Changes
Extra Ginger
Add half-ounce of ginger liqueur for more intense ginger flavor.
Changes
Original Suffering Bastard
The original version with gin and brandy or all gin instead of bourbon.
Changes
Dead Bastard
More potent version with bourbon, gin, brandy, and rum.
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Dying Bastard
Amped Suffering Bastard—gin and brandy with added bourbon, lime, bitters, and ginger beer.
Dead Bastard
The boozy apex—Suffering Bastard with added bourbon and rum, lime, bitters, and ginger beer.
Kentucky Mule
Bourbon buck—bourbon, lime, and spicy ginger beer over ice in a frosty copper mug.