The Elevenses
09 January 2026
Elevenses is a mid-morning break of a small bite or refreshment between the morning meal and lunch, or a second breakfast usually around 11:00 am. Different from ‘brunch’ that consolidates breakfast with lunch. The Elevenses cocktail checks the box for refreshment, with enough calories and sugar to bridge the gap until lunch.
The Elevenses combines bourbon with citrus. Knob Creek is preferred for its sweet, robust oaky flavor, and hints of smooth vanilla, and caramel. Fresh squeezed orange juice amplifies the bourbon’s nuanced flavors, with bitters that highlight spicy undertones, and balance its sweet, smokey flavors.
Total time -
About 5 minutes
INGREDIENTS -
Per serving
3 ounces Bourbon
3 ounces orange juice
4 to 5 dashes Pomegranate or Orange Bitters
Freshly cracked ice
Blood orange for garnish
NOTES -
The Elevenses cocktail pairs exquisitley with brunch-time steak and eggs.
The proportions can be adjusted if you prefer a sweeter, milder version, or a stronger, more potent drink to start the day, or continue the party.
Freshly squeezed orange juice brings vibrance, superior aroma, and complex taste. Store-bought juice lacks volatile compounds and enzymes that are lost during processing and pasteurization. But if only store-bought is available that will do.
