The Belvedere No. 1 has the general structure of a sour: spirit, lemon, and just enough sweetness to bring it all into balance. But instead of using a single base spirit and a simple sweetener, it builds the drink in a more intricate way. Brandy and bourbon combine to form the base, while triple sec and maraschino liqueur soften the lemon and add delicate accents around the edges.
The split base is what gives the cocktail most of its personality. Brandy brings a smooth, fruity warmth that feels right at home against fresh citrus. Bourbon adds a little more depth, with vanilla, oak, and a gentle richness that complements the brandy beautifully. Together, they make the Belvedere No. 1 feel fuller and more rounded than a standard sour, without making it heavy.
The liqueurs are subtle, but they do a lot. Triple sec adds a light orange note that helps balance the lemon’s sharpness. Maraschino liqueur brings a hint of nutty, floral character that provides a little extra dimension. Neither dominates; they are there to support the citrus and make the cocktail feel more complete.
That is the appeal of the Belvedere No. 1: it’s gentle on the palate and easy to understand, but not one-note. It has the refreshing snap of a sour, small accents from the liqueurs, and a surprisingly complex base underneath. Shake it well, serve it cold, and enjoy a drink that is bright, balanced, and remarkably interesting.
Check out the full recipe here:
Belvedere No. 1
Brandy, Bourbon, Triple Sec