Summary:
Whiskey Smash Cocktail recipe orchestrates seasonal fruit infusions with lively herbs and vibrant citrus to deliver a refreshing, verdant sip. This guide shows you how to select ripe berries or stone fruits, harmonise them with fresh mint, and blend with quality bourbon for a lissome texture. Following simple, human-centred advice, like chilling tools and tasting frequently, you’ll achieve a balanced, aromatic drink that feels rustic and refined. Moreover, these tips ensure your Whiskey Smash Cocktail shines at every gathering.
Equipment:
Cocktail shaker
Measuring jigger
Muddler or wooden spoon
Fine strainer
Rocks glass
Ice scoop or tongs
Citrus juicer
Cutting board and knife
Ingredients:
60 ml bourbon or rye whiskey
30 ml fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons superfine sugar
A handful of seasonal fruit (berries, peaches, or plums)
8–10 fresh mint leaves
Ice cubes
Mint sprig and fruit slice for garnish
Instructions
Fruit Selection and Prep
Choose fruits at peak ripeness to ensure natural sweetness and vivid colour. Gently wash berries or slice stone fruits against the grain for even pieces. Pat dry to prevent extra dilution. Measure a small handful and set aside a few pieces for garnish. Juice fresh lemons and keep the juice chilled to preserve brightness.
Muddling and Infusion
Place fruit, mint leaves, sugar, and lemon juice into the shaker. Use a muddler or wooden spoon to gently press the fruit and mint, releasing essential oils and juices. Avoid over-mashing to keep the texture alive. Add whiskey and stir briefly to combine flavours. Taste the infusion and adjust sugar or mint intensity as desired.
Shaking and Chilling
Fill the shaker with ice cubes to the brim and seal firmly. Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds, feeling the shaker turn cold in your hand. This chills and slightly dilutes the mixture, rounding the edges. Use a fine strainer to pour the liquid into a rocks glass over fresh ice. This step ensures a crystal-clear presentation.
Serving and Presentation
Nestle an ice-filled glass on a coaster and pour the strained Smash slowly to avoid spillover. Garnish with a mint sprig and a slice of the chosen fruit. Whisper a gentle stir to awaken aromas before offering. Serve immediately while the drink still exudes cold and fragrance.
Note
This Whiskey Smash recipe excels when every component is well chilled and freshly prepared. Always taste at each stage—infusion, after muddling, and post-shake—to tailor sweetness and strength. Use superfine sugar for rapid dissolution and a finer texture. Employ glass or ceramic tools where possible to avoid metallic notes. Finally, present your Whiskey Smash Cocktail in a clear glass to highlight the drink’s radiant hue and herbal notes.