Whiskey Smash
A vibrant, muddled cocktail marrying bourbon with fresh lemon and mint, creating a rustic yet refreshing sipper that bridges the gap between a mint julep and a whiskey sour.
- 2 ozbourbon
- ¾ ozfresh lemon juice
- ¾ ozsimple syrup
- 6 leavesfresh mint
- Mint sprig and lemon wheelgarnish
- 1Gently muddle mint leaves with simple syrup in a shaker to release oils without shredding.
- 2Add bourbon and lemon juice.
- 3Add ice and shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds.
- 4Double strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- 5Garnish with a mint sprig and lemon wheel.
Share this page
The smash category dates to the mid-1800s, appearing in Jerry Thomas's 1862 guide as variations on the julep using muddled fresh fruit and herbs. The modern Whiskey Smash gained prominence during the craft cocktail revival of the 2000s, popularized by bartender Dale DeGroff. The drink demonstrates the muddling technique—extracting flavors through gentle pressing rather than aggressive crushing—and shows how spirit, citrus, sweetener, and herbs can create something greater than its parts.
🛒 Tools for This Recipe
Everything you need to make a great Whiskey Smash at home.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. These links help support Jigger & Joy at no extra cost to you. Learn more
🍸 Drink Responsibly: Alcoholic beverages should only be consumed by adults of legal drinking age. Never drink and drive. If you choose to drink, please do so responsibly. Excessive alcohol consumption can be harmful to your health. If you or someone you know struggles with alcohol, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357.
⚠️ Allergen Notice: Allergen information provided on this site is for general guidance only and may not be complete or accurate. Ingredients and formulations can vary by brand and may change without notice. If you have food allergies or sensitivities, always verify ingredients directly with manufacturers and check all product labels before consumption. Consult a healthcare professional if you have specific dietary concerns. Jigger & Joy is not liable for any adverse reactions resulting from the consumption of recipes on this site.
Disclaimer: Recipes are provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. Nutritional information, ABV estimates, and other data are approximations and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods used.