The Apricot Bourbon Smash is a fresh, fruity cocktail that brings together the smooth depth of bourbon with the soft sweetness of apricot. Muddled apricots or apricot preserves give it a juicy, slightly jammy feel, while lemon juice and fresh mint keep it bright and balanced. Served over ice, it’s the kind of drink that feels both rich and refreshing, great for late summer evenings or early fall gatherings. The bourbon adds warmth without overpowering, making this a solid pick for folks who like something bold but still easy to sip. It’s simple, flavorful, and just the right amount of laid-back.

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Tasting Notes

The Apricot Bourbon Smash is a rich, fruity, and refreshing cocktail that blends warm bourbon, sweet apricot, and vibrant mint. The apricot puree adds a lush, stone-fruit sweetness that complements the bourbon’s caramel and oak notes, while lemon juice brightens the drink with a slight tang. The muddled mint introduces a cooling herbal freshness, making this cocktail both smooth and invigorating. Served over ice in a rocks glass, it’s a perfectly balanced, aromatic, and refreshing drink.

Equipment and Glassware

To craft the Apricot Bourbon Smash, you’ll need a muddler to release the mint’s aroma, a jigger for precise measurements, and a cocktail shaker to properly mix and chill the drink. A fine mesh strainer is useful for a smoother pour, and a rocks glass is ideal for serving. A bar spoon can help stir and incorporate flavors if needed.

Ingredients

2 oz bourbon whiskey
2 oz apricot puree
¼ oz lemon juice
3 mint leaves plus more for garnish

Instructions

In a shaker, gently muddle the 3 mint leaves to release their aroma and flavor.
Add 2 oz of bourbon whiskey, 2 oz of apricot puree, and ¼ oz of lemon juice to the shaker.
Fill the shaker with ice and shake well for about 15-20 seconds until the mixture is well chilled.
Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
Garnish with additional mint leaves for a fresh touch.
Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Apricot Bourbon Smash.

Pro Tips

Use high-quality bourbon for the best depth and richness of flavor.
Gently muddle the mint—press just enough to release the oils without making it bitter.
If you prefer a thinner texture, add a splash of simple syrup or water to the apricot puree.
Try grilling the apricots before blending for a richer, caramelized flavor.
Swap apricot puree for apricot liqueur (like Giffard Abricot du Roussillon) for a boozier twist.

When to Serve

The Apricot Bourbon Smash is a perfect cocktail for warm weather, making it ideal for spring and summer gatherings, backyard barbecues, bourbon tastings, and casual happy hours. Its refreshing yet robust character also makes it a great transitional cocktail into the fall season. Whether served at a cocktail party or enjoyed as a relaxing evening drink, this bourbon smash is a standout choice.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

For bourbon, select a well-balanced option like Buffalo Trace, Woodford Reserve, or Four Roses Small Batch. If using an apricot liqueur instead of puree, try Giffard Apricot or Rothman & Winter Orchard Apricot. Fresh apricots are best for the puree, but high-quality canned apricots in juice can work as a substitute.

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