A modern take on a classic aperitivo, the Barracuda No. 2 balances mellow bourbon with the nutty depth of Oloroso sherry and the bright lift of fresh lemon. This cocktail recipe highlights Aperitivo Luxardo for bittersweet complexity while a rich sugar syrup smooths the edges, producing a drink that feels both refined and effortless. Ingredients like bourbon, chilled Oloroso, lemon juice and a lemon twist are central to the flavor profile and should be measured precisely for consistent results.
What is the Barracuda No. 2 cocktail?
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This cocktail is a refined aperitif mixing bourbon with fortified sherry and an Aperol-style liqueur. The result reads as lightly boozy yet balanced with citrus acidity and gentle bitterness. It suits pre-dinner service and elevated home bars where subtlety matters.
The drink was adapted by bartenders Jessica Gonzalez and Lynette Marrero in 2015, then refined into this second version. Fans of aromatic fortified wines will find the Oloroso sherry an essential characteristic. If vous enjoy layered, slightly bitter cocktails, this one rewards patience and good technique.
Which ingredients do you need for Barracuda No. 2?
Accurate measurements ensure the balance between spirit, fortified wine and citrus remains consistent. Use fresh lemon juice and a rich sugar syrup for the desired texture and mouthfeel.
| Ingredient | Measure (ml) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bourbon whiskey | 22.5 | Choose a mellow, caramel-forward bottle |
| Lustau Oloroso Don Nuño sherry | 22.5 | Chilled before mixing |
| Aperitivo Luxardo | 22.5 | Aperol-style bitter-sweet liqueur |
| Fresh lemon juice | 22.5 | Strain to remove pulp |
| Rich sugar syrup | 15 | 2:1 sugar to water, about 65°Brix |
A small note on scaling: increase each ingredient proportionally and maintain the same dilution and chill for optimal consistency. Precise timing when shaking and straining affects texture and temperature.
How do you make Barracuda No. 2?
Begin by chilling a coupe glass so the cocktail stays cold longer after serving. Prepare a thin lemon zest twist while the glass cools and the ingredients rest.
Combine all measured ingredients with plenty of ice in a shaker and shake briskly until well chilled. Fine strain into the pre-chilled coupe glass to remove small ice shards and ensure a clean presentation. Finish by expressing the lemon oils over the surface and dropping the twist into the drink.
What glassware and garnish work best?
The proper vessel enhances aroma and presentation. Choose a 150ml coupe or retro optic coupette that frames the surface and allows the citrus oils to perfume the first sip.
Garnish with a tight lemon zest twist and release its oils across the drink for balance. The citrus nuance plays a crucial role in harmonizing the bourbon and sherry.
How strong is the cocktail and what does it taste like?
Expect a moderate alcohol profile where spirit presence is noticeable but softened by fortified wine and liqueur. The recipe yields approximately 11.97% alc./vol. which equates to roughly 1 standard drink.
Flavor notes include gentle caramel from the bourbon, nutty Oloroso richness, bittersweet aperitivo character and bright lemon acidity. The sugar syrup rounds edges so the finish remains balanced and pleasantly dry.
Are there allergens and what are the nutrition details?
The recipe contains fortified Oloroso sherry which may have added sulphur dioxide and sulphites. Mark this if you serve guests with sensitive allergies.
- Allergen: Sulphur Dioxide / Sulphites from Oloroso sherry
Nutritionally, one serving contains about 185 calories. Alcohol content converts to roughly 13.5 grams of pure alcohol per serving, so please account for this when planning menus or advising guests.
Where did the cocktail come from and are there useful variations?
The Barracuda No. 2 traces back to a 2015 recipe by Jessica Gonzalez and Lynette Marrero and has evolved through bartender experimentation. Its name links to the broader Barracuda family of aperitivo-style drinks.
Variations often swap the bourbon for rye or use different Oloroso producers to adjust dryness and nuttiness. You can also experiment with alternative aperitifs for a lighter or more herbal bitterness depending on the direction you want to take the drink.
Andrew Cole focuses on everyday drinks, from warm comfort beverages to refreshing options. His writing emphasizes balance, clarity, and ease of preparation.
