The Boulevardier may seem like a fancy drink to sip while cooling off in style, but this cocktail actually has some surprising health benefits. It is made of equal parts bourbon, Campari and sweet vermouth, and was first created at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris in the 1920s.
The ingredients may seem very addictive, but each one has its own health benefits. Bourbon gives you B vitamins, magnesium, and other good stuff from the grains it’s made from, as well as antioxidants from being aged in oak barrels. Campari water brings anti-inflammatory benefits thanks to Vitamin C, potassium, ginger and some nice calming scents like chamomile.
Add ruby-colored sweet vermouth to red wine for some added antioxidants. When mixed together, these spirits create a smooth and strong drink rich in nutrients that may improve heart and gut health, boost immunity and brain function, regulate blood sugar and can slow down the aging process.
This cocktail is also linked to protection against age-related diseases and oxidative stress. It’s pretty surprising that a cocktail can provide so many health benefits in just one glass, isn’t it?
The Nutritious Ingredients of the Boulevardier
1. Campari
The Boulevardier cocktail combines three different liquors, each bringing their own health benefits to the mix. Campari gives it a unique bitter taste from a blend of herbs, fruit peels, flowers and spices.
The wonderful red color comes from natural dyes, which also indicates the antioxidants that come from these plant-based ingredients. Research has proven that ingredients like orange peel and ginger found in Campari have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits. [Source]
Campari contains some vitamin C, iron, potassium, phosphorus and magnesium which help keep your heart healthy and improve digestion and metabolism. [Source]
2. Bourbon
Bourbon whiskey brings the goodness of its own nutty grains. Being a whiskey made from at least 51% corn mixed with malted barley and rye or wheat, bourbon’s mash bill gives you B vitamins like niacin, riboflavin, and thiamine. [Source]
These things help in the metabolism of cells and functioning of enzymes. When oak barrels are used to age the product, it adds beneficial amounts of calcium, iron, zinc and magnesium, as well as antioxidants such as ellagitannins.
Bourbon is a healthier spirit choice because it contains no added sugars or additives during production, allowing its natural flavor to shine through without any added ingredients.
3. Sweet Vermouth
So, sweet vermouth basically starts out as white wine, then they add some botanical flavors and spices like chamomile, cinnamon, and vanilla.
And on top of that, this fortified wine still has a little bit of vitamin C, iron, potassium, and other minerals, as well as some good-for-you antioxidants like resveratrol.
When you have a little boulevard, the other things in there can really help with inflammation, digestion, and keeping your blood sugar under control.
The Combined Health Powers of the Boulevardier
1. All ingredients boost antioxidant levels in the body
Mixing Campari, bourbon and sweet vermouth into a cocktail isn’t just about boosting spirits. It actually has some great health benefits. Each of these ingredients contain antioxidants that fight things like aging, inflammation, and diseases. [Source] [Source]
They may also help reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes and other serious conditions. So, it’s not just a delicious drink, it’s good for you too!
2. Improve gut health and digestion
Additionally, boulevardier may also aid digestion in some ways. The bitter taste of Campari Bitter can promote digestive juices and help control appetite. Ginger and other aromatic ingredients can soothe stomach problems like ulcers.
The fiber from wine and prebiotics from herbs nourish good gut bacteria, improving nutrient absorption and metabolism. A healthy gut can also boost mood and brain function.
3. Benefits for heart and circulation
The mix of nutrients is great for your heart and blood flow. Bourbon contains vitamin B that helps form red blood cells and iron, which allows oxygen to reach your organs more easily. Bourbon and vermouth also contain antioxidants that protect your blood vessels from damage that can cause clots and plaque. [Source]
Magnesium and potassium relax your blood vessels, while other minerals strengthen them. Good blood flow means better blood pressure and more blood getting to your heart and brain.
4. Aid weight loss efforts
If you’re trying to lose weight, you’ll love how drinking Boulevardier helps burn fat in several ways. Vegetables help your metabolism, and low-calorie smoothies keep you from feeling too hungry or craving a snack.
This cocktail also helps control your blood sugar to avoid sudden energy drops. It also helps your body enter ketosis and burn fat. Just remember, don’t mistake the Boulevardier for sweets.
Tips for Enjoying the Boulevardier Responsibly
To get the most out of Boulevardiers without any unwanted problems, it’s all about keeping things balanced and being smart about how you drink. Instead of chewing it, take your time sipping it to enjoy the taste. Stick to 1-2 Boulevardiers at a time, and if you need to, add more sparkling water, citrus juice or bitters to dilute the alcohol.
It’s also a good idea to eat some food while you’re drinking to reduce how quickly the alcohol affects you. If you are taking a medicine that does not mix well with alcohol, it is best to avoid drinking alcohol altogether.
And to stay hydrated and avoid becoming dehydrated from alcohol, be sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after. Remember not to drive or use any dangerous equipment if you are intoxicated.
Boulevardiers don’t contain much sugar, so they probably won’t mess too much with your blood sugar levels, but if you’re diabetic, it’s a good idea to check your levels with a glucometer after drinking the drink. Just follow these tips, and you can enjoy the Boulevardier from time to time without any problems. Moderation is key!
The Bottom Line
Even though it may seem surprising, the mix of ingredients in the Boulevardier cocktail may actually be good for your health. It has antioxidants, fiber, vitamins and minerals that may help your heart, gut and immune system.
Just be sure to drink it slowly and pay attention to how you’re feeling, as alcohol can be harsh. If you are taking any medications, it is a good idea to check with your doctor before taking it. By being careful, you can enjoy the health benefits of boulevardier without overdoing it.
