From what I can tell, the original Napoleon Cocktail was gin-based. As with many classic drinks, there are several variations floating around, depending on the era, the bar, or the bartender behind it. I love a good gin cocktail, but bourbon is where my heart lives so naturally, I decided to reinterpret the Napoleon with the whiskey version.

This version keeps the bright citrus and floral notes you’d expect from the original, but the bourbon adds warmth, depth and just a little muscle. Fresh raspberries bring subtle fruitiness, a touch of Campari adds bitterness + color and the blanc vermouth ties everything together with soft herbal sweetness. Finished with a silky foam, this is a cocktail that feels both classic and playful.

Why this cocktail works?
This bourbon-forward Napoleon works because it balances brightness, bitterness and body in every sip. The bourbon provides warmth and structure, while fresh lemon juice keeps the drink lively and refreshing. Blanc vermouth adds soft herbal sweetness that bridges the gap between citrus and whiskey and the raspberries contribute subtle fruit without overpowering the base spirit. A small touch of Campari brings just enough bitterness and color to add depth and the foamy top rounds everything out with a silky, elegant texture.

In short, it’s a classic-style cocktail with layered flavors that stay balanced from first sip to last.

Ingredients for the Napoleon Cocktail

• 1.5 oz. high-proof bourbon
• 0.5 oz. blanc vermouth (or “blanco” or “bianco”) or Lillet Blanc
• 0.75 oz. Simple Syrup 
• 0.75 oz. lemon juice
• 3-4 fresh raspberries
• 1 tsp. Campari
• 1-3 dashes cocktail foamer or egg white

How to make The Napoleon Cocktail

1. Muddle the fresh raspberries in a cocktail shaker.
2. Add the bourbon, blanc vermouth, lemon juice, simple syrup, Campari and egg white to the shaker.
3. Dry shake (without ice) the mixture vigorously to emulsify the egg white and create a foamy head.
4. Add ice to the shaker and shake again until the mixture is well-chilled.
5. Double-strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass to remove any ice shards or raspberry pulp.
6. Garnish with a few fresh raspberries or a lemon twist. 

Did you try my version of The Napoleon Cocktail? Let us know in the comments. Check out some of our other cocktail recipes. Please consider following us on Instagram, X, Facebook, Pinterest, Bluesky or TikTok.