7 Cocktails to Pound Before the Bourbon Apocalypse

We haven't reported news this dismal since the shutdown of the Huy Fong sriracha factory — America is facing a full-fledged bourbon shortage with no end in sight. Buffalo Trace explains the predicament:

"Last year we warned consumers that a shortage was looming, but many markets across the nation are just now feeling the full effects . . . Despite the increase in distillation over the past few years, bourbon demand still outpaces supply. Bourbon must be matured in new oak barrels and we age many of our barrels for eight to ten years, and some over two decades. That's a long time to wait for a bottle of bourbon. Not to mention, with the amount of bourbon lost to evaporation over time, barrels are half empty after ten years. The increase in sales, coupled with the aging process and evaporation loss, leads to a shortage with no end in sight."

So basically, stock up on the finest bottles or prepare to pay higher prices. In the meantime, drown your sorrows with one of these stiff bourbon cocktails before the bourbon apocalypse becomes full-fledged.

Photo: Anna Monette Roberts

Old Fashioned

Old Fashioned

In the beginning, there was the old fashioned. Bourbon, bitters, sugar, and a lemon peel combine for the most classic of all cocktails.

Photo: Anna Monette Roberts

Milk Punch

Milk Punch

Any Southerner knows no holiday party is complete without bourbon milk punch. Every household has a secret recipe for the sweet slush. Photo: Anna Monette Roberts

Pumpkin Pie Sparkler

Instead of a pumpkin spice latte, how about a pumpkin spice cocktail? Pumpkin syrup, bourbon, and ginger beer combine for a sparkling cocktail that will keep your spirits high during the holiday season.

Strawberry-Bourbon Cobbler

Strawberry-Bourbon Cobbler

Bourbon and berries go together like . . . well, you know. A strawberry-bourbon cobbler tastes so sweet with the addition of mint and vanilla bean.

Photo: Anna Monette Roberts

Mint Julep

Mint Julep

Whether it's Winter or the middle of Summer, a classic mint julep is as refreshing as comforting.
Photo: Anna Monette Roberts

Sparkling Bourbon Cocktail

Sparkling Bourbon Cocktail

Who knew bourbon could pair so effortlessly with Champagne? This sparkling bourbon cocktail will make you a believer.
Photo: Anna Monette Roberts

Apricot Smash

Apricot Smash

During the Summer, use fresh fruit in the apricot smash, but for cooler months, try subbing in a tablespoon of preserves.
Photo: Susannah Chen