Paul Kushner
The Peach Bourbon Smash is a seasonal twist on the classic whiskey smash, combining juicy peaches with fresh mint, citrus, and smooth bourbon. This cocktail is all about fresh flavors ripe stone fruit, a hit of lemon, and cool mint come together for a drink that’s both relaxed and satisfying. Served over crushed ice with a peach slice and mint sprig, it’s ideal for summer evenings, backyard hangouts, or anytime you want something fruit-forward with depth.
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Tasting Notes
This Peach Bourbon Smash offers a smooth mix of ripe peach and fresh mint layered over the warmth of bourbon. The fruit brings a mellow sweetness that’s balanced by the slight tartness of lemon juice and softened by simple syrup. Fresh mint adds a cooling herbal note that plays well with the bourbon’s spice and oak character. Served over crushed ice, the drink has a refreshing, lightly juicy quality and a clean finish. Each sip delivers a balance of sweetness, citrus, and bourbon depth perfect for sipping slowly as the flavors settle and open.
Equipment and Glassware
To prepare this Peach Bourbon Smash, you’ll need a cocktail shaker for mixing and chilling the ingredients thoroughly. A muddler helps crush the peach slices and mint to release flavor. A fine mesh strainer is useful to filter out pulp and mint bits when pouring. You’ll also want a jigger for accurate measuring. Serve it in a rocks glass or double old-fashioned glass, ideally filled with crushed ice for texture and temperature. A bar spoon and garnish tongs can help with the finishing touches.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Bourbon or Whiskey
- ½ ripe peach, sliced
- 4 fresh mint leaves, plus a sprig for garnish
- 1 oz simple syrup
- ½ oz fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- In a shaker, muddle the peach slices, mint leaves, and simple syrup.
- Add the bourbon and lemon juice.
- Fill with ice and shake until well-chilled.
- Strain into a glass filled with crushed ice.
- Garnish with a peach slice and a sprig of mint.
Pro Tips
- Use a fully ripe peach for maximum flavor
- If you don’t have crushed ice, pulse cubes in a blender
- Gently muddle mint to avoid bitterness
- Bourbon works best, but rye whiskey adds a spicier edge
- Adjust syrup to taste if your peach is extra sweet
- Add a splash of sparkling water to lighten the drink
- Strain twice for a cleaner presentation
- Chill your glass in advance to help the ice last longer
When to Serve
The Peach Bourbon Smash is ideal for warm-weather sipping, whether you’re at a backyard BBQ, garden party, or relaxing on the porch. It fits well in early evening settings when the sun’s still out but the day is winding down. It also works as a seasonal signature for summer events or brunches. The drink’s fresh fruit and mint combination makes it a crowd-pleaser for casual occasions and can easily be batched ahead of time for entertaining.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Bulleit
- Maker’s Mark
- Wild Turkey 101
- Elijah Craig
- Four Roses
- Woodford Reserve
- Old Forester
Similar Cocktails
- Grapefruit Bourbon Smash
- Strawberry Bourbon Smash
- Cherry Bourbon Smash
- Peach Bourbon Arnold Palmer
- Watermelon Bourbon Smash
Ingredients
- 2 oz Bourbon or Whiskey
- ½ ripe peach sliced
- 4 fresh mint leaves plus a sprig for garnish
- 1 oz simple syrup
- ½ oz fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- In a shaker, muddle the peach slices, mint leaves, and simple syrup.
- Add the bourbon and lemon juice.
- Fill with ice and shake until well-chilled.
- Strain into a glass filled with crushed ice.
- Garnish with a peach slice and a sprig of mint.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use ripe, juicy peaches for maximum flavor white or yellow varieties both work well.
- If fresh peaches aren’t available, try a spoonful of quality peach preserves.
- Slap the mint sprig gently between your hands before garnishing to enhance aroma.
