Paul Kushner
The Bourbon Watermelon Crush is a bold and refreshing mix of smooth whiskey and fresh summer flavor. Juicy watermelon adds a light, fruity base that softens the rich, caramel notes of bourbon. A splash of lemon or lime juice keeps it bright, while a little simple syrup can sweeten it up just enough. Served over ice, it’s a laid-back cocktail that works well on warm evenings or casual hangouts. The balance of sweet fruit and smoky bourbon makes it easy to sip without losing its edge. It’s a fresh twist that keeps things interesting without being too heavy.
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Tasting Notes
The Bourbon Watermelon Crush is a summer-ready cocktail that fuses the deep warmth of bourbon with the light, juicy sweetness of fresh watermelon. Lime juice brings in a bright, citrusy kick that balances the richness of the whiskey, while the mint garnish adds a cool, herbal lift. It’s refreshing, bold, and perfectly sippable—ideal for porch swings, barbecues, or beachside sunsets.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a blender, fine mesh sieve, cocktail shaker, and jigger. Serve in a rocks glass or tumbler over fresh ice. A bar spoon is handy for a final gentle stir, and garnish tweezers help place the mint sprig neatly.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Bourbon
- 4 oz watermelon juice
- 1 oz Lime juice
- Mint sprig, lime wheel and a watermelon wedge for garnish
Fresh watermelon juice
- 1 cup Red Seedless Watermelon cut into chunks
Instructions
Prepare the Watermelon Juice:
- Place the watermelon chunks in a blender and blend until smooth.
- Strain the blended watermelon through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl to remove the pulp. You should have about 4 oz of fresh watermelon juice.
Mix the Cocktail:
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the Bourbon, 4 oz of fresh watermelon juice, and lime juice.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
- Fill a glass with ice and strain the mixture into the glass.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint, lime wheel and a watermelon wedge.
Pro Tips
- Use a ripe, juicy watermelon for maximum flavor and sweetness.
- If you like it sweeter, add 0.25 oz simple syrup or a dash of honey syrup.
- For a spicy twist, add a thin slice of jalapeño to the shaker before shaking.
- Chill your watermelon before blending for an extra cool cocktail.
When to Serve
Perfect for backyard barbecues, sweltering summer nights, or bourbon lovers eager for a fresh seasonal spin, the Bourbon Watermelon Crush offers a refreshing take on a timeless spirit. Its balance of smoky depth and juicy sweetness makes it stand out at any gathering, striking just the right note between familiar and unexpected. Whether you’re entertaining a crowd or winding down after a long day, this cocktail brings a playful yet refined twist to your drink lineup. With its simple ingredients and standout flavor, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite when bourbon season meets summertime vibes.
Recommended Brands to Use
- Bourbon: Bulleit, Woodford Reserve, or Maker’s Mark
- Lime juice: Always freshly squeezed
- Mint: Use spearmint for a gentle herbal aroma
Similar Cocktails
Equipment
- Bowl
Ingredients
- 2 oz Bourbon
- 4 oz watermelon juice
- 1 oz Lime juice
- 1 Sprig of mint for garnish
Fresh watermelon juice
- 1 cup Red Seedless Watermelon cut into chunks
Instructions
Prepare the Watermelon Juice:
- Place the watermelon chunks in a blender and blend until smooth.
- Strain the blended watermelon through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl to remove the pulp. You should have about 4 oz of fresh watermelon juice.
Mix the Cocktail:
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the Bourbon, 4 oz of fresh watermelon juice, and lime juice.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
Serve:
- Fill a glass with ice and strain the mixture into the glass.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint.
