How it tastes
Slightly heavier than a Negroni. The whisky brings vanilla and oak where the gin would bring juniper. The Campari and vermouth do the same job they do in a Negroni, but they read differently next to bourbon. Less sharp, more wood-warm. We tend to use a higher-proof bourbon to keep the spirit forward against the Campari.
Why we built it
The Boulevardier was created in 1920s Paris by Erskine Gwynne, an American expat who edited a literary magazine of the same name. It predates the Negroni in some accounts. Either way, it's the version that whisky drinkers gravitate toward. We pour it for guests who order a Negroni and then want a second one, slower.
Where to drink it
On request at Dissolved Solids in Damansara Kim, Petaling Jaya. Especially good in the late evening with something rich. Reserve a table for a guaranteed seat.
Frequently asked questions
What glass is the Boulevardier served in?
Either a chilled coupe (up) or a rocks glass over a single large ice cube. The rocks pour drinks slower and is the bar-classic format. The coupe up shows the deep red colour better and finishes faster. Pick by mood: rocks for a long evening, up for a focused short pour.
Can I substitute the bourbon?
Rye whiskey is the bartender's swap, gives the drink more spice on the front. Single malt Scotch turns it into a Hot Whisky cousin (still nice but a different drink). Japanese whisky works beautifully if you have it; the Mizunara note adds aromatic depth. Avoid heavily peated Scotch; the smoke fights the Campari.
How strong is the Boulevardier?
Strong. About 27 to 31 percent ABV in the glass after stir-dilution. The 45ml of bourbon (40 to 50 percent), 30ml Campari (24 percent), and 30ml sweet vermouth (15 to 17 percent) make this one of the heaviest classics in regular rotation. Sip slowly; this is a one-or-two drink, not a session pour.
Where can I order a Boulevardier in PJ or KL?
At Dissolved Solids (Damansara Kim, 43-1 Jalan SS20/11, Tue-Sun 15:00 to 01:00, WhatsApp +60 11-4008 7607) or Soluble Solids (SS2, 50-1 Jalan SS2/24, Wed-Sun 18:00 to 01:00, WhatsApp +60 11-1682 8651). Both pour with a high-proof bourbon to keep the whisky forward against the Campari. Tell us if you want it leaner or rounder.
What food pairs with the Boulevardier?
Grilled red meat and rich Italian. Ribeye, lamb chops, beef carpaccio, ossobuco, mushroom risotto. Also bridges into dark-chocolate dessert (especially with orange or salt). The Campari's bitter orange wakes up smoky and char-grilled flavours. Avoid delicate seafood; the drink will smother it.