The Seven Over Par Is A Bittersweet Symphony Of Rye And Aperol

Seven Over Par

Everything You Need to Know About the Seven Over Par

For those who find the Boulevardier too bitter, and the Old Fashioned too sweet, allow us to introduce the Seven Over Par. Created by OJ Lima, this rye cocktail was inspired by Bill Stephens of the Black and Brown Podcast. Stephens introduced Lima to the Boulevardier, but after a few rounds, Lima craved a lighter whiskey cocktail that still featured the herbal essence of a classic Italian aperitif. By swapping in Aperol for Campari and rye for bourbon, the Seven Over Par combines the subtle tartness of rhubarb and rye spice with the brightness of orange and vanilla. Much like a High Ball, the lemon twist adds crisp citrus notes that make whiskey fresher and lighter in a way the sweetness of an orange peel can't. Named for Stephens' golf handicap, the +7 - as they call it at the 19th Hole - is a bittersweet symphony that appeals to whiskey drinkers and cocktail connoisseurs alike.

Seven Over Par

Prep Time5 min
Yield1 Cocktail
Base SpiritRye, Aperol

Ingredients

  • 1.5 oz Rye Whiskey
  • 0.5 oz Sweet Vermouth
  • 0.5 oz Aperol
  • Lemon Twist, for garnish
The Seven Over Par Is A Bittersweet Symphony Of Rye And Aperol

Instructions

  1. Add ingredients into a mixing glass with plenty of ice.
  2. Stir vigorously until the glass is well-chilled and the drink is properly diluted.
  3. Double strain over a single large ice cube into a lowball glass.
  4. Garnish with a heated lemon twist.
Pro Tip
Use a Kentucky-style rye for the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. To create the ideal lemon twist, heat a lemon peel with a flame to activate the citrus oils. This adds an intense aroma and helps cut through the sweetness.

Seven Over Par Riff

For a touch of sweetness that enhances the Aperol's orange flavor, use a bourbon instead of rye. The vanilla notes of a bourbon are an excellent base for the herbal essence of the aperitif.