Blueberry Bourbon Smash

Bold, juicy, and bursting with flavor, the Blueberry Bourbon Smash is a cocktail that knows how to make an impression. Fresh muddled blueberries meet smooth bourbon and a splash of citrus for a drink that’s as refreshing as it is rich. With its light red color and easy-to-make recipe, this bourbon cocktail with blueberries is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard BBQ, winding down after dinner, or mixing up something special for cocktail hour, this fruity bourbon drink delivers the perfect mix of sweet, tart, and strong.

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Tasting Notes

The Blueberry Bourbon Smash blends the warmth of bourbon with the juicy sweetness of fresh blueberries. Lemon juice brightens the drink with a crisp, citrusy lift, while simple syrup softens the acidity for a balanced profile. Muddled blueberries release both flavor and a rich, deep color, giving the cocktail a visually striking appearance. Optional soda water adds a light sparkle, making it more refreshing without diluting the bourbon’s character. Garnished with mint and whole blueberries, the drink is fragrant, colorful, and full of layered flavor. Each sip offers a mix of fruity sweetness, bright citrus, and smooth bourbon depth.

Equipment and Glassware

To prepare the Blueberry Bourbon Smash, you’ll need a cocktail shaker for blending and chilling the ingredients. A muddler is essential for breaking down the blueberries and releasing their juice. A jigger ensures accurate measurements for the bourbon, simple syrup, and lemon juice. A fine strainer is helpful for removing pulp and skins, ensuring a smooth drink. A bar spoon can be used for gently mixing in soda water if desired. Serve the cocktail in a sturdy rocks glass, which provides enough room for ice, garnish, and optional fizz while showcasing the drink’s deep berry color.

Ingredients

• 3 lemon wedges
• ½ cup fresh blueberries
• 2 oz bourbon
• 0.75 oz simple syrup
• 4 fresh mint leaves
• Garnish: Blueberries, lemon wheel, mint sprig

Instructions

• In a cocktail shaker, muddle the lemon wedges and blueberries until the fruit releases its juice.
• Fill the shaker with ice.
• Add bourbon, simple syrup, and mint leaves.
• Shake well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled.
• Fill a rocks glass with fresh ice.
• Strain the cocktail through a mesh strainer into the glass.
• Garnish with blueberries, a lemon wheel, and a mint sprig.
• Serve immediately.

Pro Tips

• Use ripe, sweet blueberries for better flavor.
• Chill your glass before serving.
• Fine strain to remove skins for a smoother drink.
• Adjust simple syrup to control sweetness.
• Use fresh lemon juice for brightness.
• Choose a quality bourbon for depth.
• Add soda water for a lighter, spritz-like version.
• Muddle gently to avoid bitterness from seeds.
• Keep garnishes fresh for aroma.
• Serve immediately for peak freshness.

When to Serve

The Blueberry Bourbon Smash is perfect for late-summer evenings, backyard barbecues, and casual gatherings with friends. Its blend of bourbon warmth and fresh berry brightness makes it versatile enough for both warm and cool weather. It pairs well with grilled meats, cheese boards, or light appetizers, making it a great choice for outdoor dining. The vibrant color and aromatic garnish make it visually appealing for special occasions or relaxed weekend cocktails. Whether served with soda water for a lighter touch or enjoyed in its richer form, this drink suits a range of moods and seasonal celebrations.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Bourbon

• Buffalo Trace
• Maker’s Mark
• Woodford Reserve

Similar Cocktails

• Mint Apricot Bourbon Smash
• Blueberry Lavender Fizz
• Bourbon Pear Cider
• Sparkling Fall Sangria
• Blueberry Paloma