You’ve found it—the cocktail that will transform your whiskey experience. Looking for the perfect balance of strength and refreshment? The Whiskey Smash delivers exactly what its name promises: a smashing combination that awakens the senses. When robust bourbon meets bright lemon and aromatic mint, magic happens. Even whiskey skeptics reach for seconds.
Watch: How to Make this Whiskey Cocktail
What Is a Whiskey Smash Cocktail?
The Whiskey Smash dates back to the 1880s—think of it as a Mint Julep with a citrus twist. First appearing in Jerry Thomas’ 1887 “Bartender’s Guide,” it became a speakeasy favorite during Prohibition when mint and lemon helped mask bootleg whiskey’s harsh edge. A practical solution that became a timeless classic.
What you’ll love about this recipe:
What You Need to Make a Whiskey Smash Recipe
How to Make a Whiskey Smash Cocktail
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle the lemon wedges with simple syrup to extract both juice and essential oils from the skin.
- Add mint leaves and press gently with your muddler—avoid crushing them, which releases bitter compounds.
- Pour in your whiskey of choice, add ice to the shaker, and shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
- Double-strain into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice to prevent mint fragments and lemon seeds.
- Garnish with a fresh mint sprig, slapping it between your palms first to release its aromatic oils.
Expert Recipe Tips
- Tip 1: For an elevated experience, try using a wheated bourbon like Maker’s Mark or a high-rye bourbon like Four Roses Single Barrel.
- Tip 2: The quality of your ice matters—large, clear ice cubes melt slower, preventing unwanted dilution.
- Tip 3: Consider infusing your simple syrup with additional herbs like thyme or rosemary for a seasonal twist.
How to Serve This Whiskey Smash
Serve in a rocks glass with crushed ice. Perfect for summer evenings on the porch, but switch to rye whiskey, and you’ve got an ideal fall companion. Sophisticated enough for dinner parties, perfect for Derby day, and casual enough for everyday sipping.
More Cocktail Recipes
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Whiskey Smash Cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- ¾ oz simple syrup
- ½ lemon cut into wedges
- 8-10 fresh mint leaves
- Mint sprig for garnish
Instructions
- Muddle lemon wedges and simple syrup in a shaker.
- Add mint leaves and gently muddle.
- Pour in whiskey, add ice, and shake well.
- Strain into a glass filled with crushed ice.
- Garnish with a mint sprig.
Video
Recipe FAQs
You could… but we don’t recommend it. Fresh mint is traditional, but you can substitute basil for an interesting variation.
The primary difference is the addition of lemon in the Smash, which adds brightness and acidity not found in the Julep.
Yes, but with caution, things could get wild. Pre-muddle your lemons and simple syrup, but add the mint and whiskey just before serving to preserve freshness and prevent oxidation.
We recommend a bourbon with 90-100 proof for the optimal balance of flavor and strength—Elijah Craig Small Batch or Buffalo Trace are excellent starting points.
Traditionally crushed ice, which chills the drink rapidly and provides the right amount of dilution for the robust whiskey base.
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