There’s a place here in Albuquerque (Nob Hill Bar & Grill) that makes a fantastic drink called the “Ginger Maker” that I attempted to emulate:

1 part Maker’s Mark bourbon (I used Knob Creek…so let’s call it a Ginger Knob.  It sounds…dirty…), 3 parts ginger beer, not ginger ale.  Freshly grated ginger and lemon zest to taste (or you can drop three drops of lemon juice, if you don’t want to assault a lemon for its skin.)

Shave ginger and lemon zest into the glass, add crushed ice.  Add bourbon, then ginger beer to taste.