SALINA, KANSAS — Barolo Grille is raising the bar once again with its newest creation, The War Horse — a cocktail crafted by mixologist Kara Reith, built on a foundation of balance, depth, and refined warmth.
Described as “a bold yet balanced blend,” The War Horse combines Horse Soldier Small Batch Bourbon and Drambuie, opening with the aromatic smoke of fresh rosemary and a bright twist of lemon zest. A dash of Angostura bitters ties the flavors together, layering warm spice beneath the bourbon’s caramel depth and Drambuie’s smooth, honeyed sweetness. Each sip carries what Kara calls “a harmony of smoke, citrus, and spice.”
Kara Reith Smoking Rosemary for The War Horse and Adds Lemon Zest
“For the War Horse, every cocktail I create starts with balance — between spirit and sweetness, warmth and brightness,” Kara said. “It’s about letting each ingredient speak without overpowering the others.”
Kara upgraded the drink as part of Barolo Grille's fall cocktail menu, a lineup that she says was intended to feel "both familiar and elevated."
Kara Reith Layers Bourbon and Drambuie for The War Horse
“Each cocktail has its own character,” she added. “Some bold, some bright, some comforting. But all are built with intention and balance at their core.”
The War Horse is now available exclusively at Barolo Grille, offering guests a taste of craftsmanship and character in every drink.
Barolo Grille | 112 S Santa Fe Ave, Salina | (785) 833-2272 | Menu: barologrille.com | Happy hour food • Great cocktails • Vegetarian options.
Sidebar: The Story Behind Horse Soldier Bourbon
Few spirits carry a history as powerful as Horse Soldier Bourbon. Its origins trace back to the elite U.S. Army Special Forces who became known as the “Horse Soldiers” — the first American troops deployed into Afghanistan after the attacks of September 11, 2001. Riding on horseback through the mountains, these soldiers carried out missions that would later inspire the film 12 Strong and the CNN documentary Legion of Brothers. Their bravery is immortalized at Ground Zero by the America’s Response Monument, honoring the unity and courage that defined their mission.
Years later, members of that same unit founded American Freedom Distillery, crafting bourbon that reflects the same discipline, precision, and American spirit they carried into battle. From grain to glass, Horse Soldier Bourbon is handmade with all-natural ingredients and bottled in the heartland — a living tribute to resilience, craftsmanship, and the soldiers who inspired it.
Horse Soldier Bourbon: forged in courage, distilled in freedom.