Lavender‑Infused Bourbon: Perfect Ratio & Quick Recipe

Ready to turn a classic Old Fashioned into a floral show‑stopper without the perfume‑store aftertaste? This guide shows the exact lavender infused bourbon ratio, steep time, and filtration trick that delivers a smooth, aromatic spirit every time—no bitterness, no waste.

Why Lavender Bourbon Goes Bitter (and How to Fix It)

The first batch I tried was a disaster: a pale violet pour that tasted like medicine. Three mistakes caused the off‑flavor:

1. Too much lavender – dried buds are highly concentrated.
2. Over‑infusing – the longer the bourbon sits, the more bitter compounds it extracts.
3. Poor straining – fine particles keep releasing flavor long after you think the infusion is done.

Switching to a modest amount of buds, a short, controlled steep, and a coffee‑filter‑style paper eliminated the bitterness and gave the bourbon a clean, floral edge.

Proven Ratio & Timing for Lavender‑Infused Bourbon

1. Jar & bourbon – Use a clean, wide‑mouth mason jar. Add 750 ml of your favorite bourbon.
2. Lavender amount – Add 1 Tbsp (≈3‑4 g) dried culinary lavender. If you prefer fresh buds, double the quantity.
3. Shake & seal – Give the jar a good shake, then seal tightly.
4. Steep time – Let it sit 2 hours at room temperature.
   • 30‑minute steeps are barely noticeable.
   • Overnight steeps pull out harsh, bitter notes.

After 2 hours, sniff the liquid. A light herbaceous aroma that complements the bourbon’s vanilla and caramel notes means you’re ready to strain. If the flavor feels weak, extend by 30‑minute increments—never exceed 3 hours.

Step‑by‑Step Lavender Bourbon Old Fashioned

1. Fine‑filter – Place a coffee filter or fine‑mesh tea strainer over a clean bottle. Slowly pour the infused bourbon through, tapping the filter to coax every last drop. This removes all bud fragments that could make the drink gritty.
2. Store – Seal the bottle, label it, and keep it in a cool, dark place. The infusion stays bright for a few weeks; aim to use it within a month for peak flavor.
3. Mix the cocktail – In an Old Fashioned glass, combine:
   • 2 oz lavender infused bourbon
   • 1 sugar cube (or ½ tsp simple syrup)
   • 2‑3 dashes Angostura bitters
   • Orange peel for garnish
     Stir gently, add a large ice cube, and enjoy the subtle floral finish that elevates the classic.

Final Thoughts

A single tablespoon of dried lavender and a 2‑hour steep can transform your home bar’s go‑to bourbon into a conversation‑worthy spirit. Experiment with the ratio if you like a stronger floral hint, but stay within the 1 Tbsp‑to‑750 ml guideline to keep bitterness at bay.

Love the result? Share your tweaks in the comments or tag @HomeBarDiaries on social media. For more low‑key cocktail experiments, subscribe to the Home Bar Diaries newsletter—no fluff, just practical recipes that work.