Paul Kushner
This is one of the drinks that I absolutely love, the Cherry Bourbon Smash. It’s a delicious cocktail that’s a bit sweet, a bit sour, and totally refreshing. Made with ripe cherries, zesty lemon, a touch of simple syrup, and, of course, smooth bourbon, it’s a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re chilling at home or throwing a party, this drink is sure to impress.
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Tasting Notes
The Cherry Bourbon Smash has a wonderful balance of flavors. You’ll first taste the sweet and tartness of the cherries and lemon, which then smoothly transitions into the warm and rich taste of bourbon. The simple syrup ties it all together with a hint of sweetness, making every sip just perfect.
Equipment and Glassware
To make this cocktail, you’ll need a cocktail shaker, a muddler to smash the cherries and lemon to release their flavors, and a strainer. For glassware, a rocks glass is ideal. It’s sturdy and the perfect size to enjoy your cocktail.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Bourbon
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 4 ripe cherries, pitted
- Half a lemon, cut into wedges
- Extra cherry and lemon for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In your cocktail shaker, muddle the cherries and lemon wedges with the simple syrup to release their juices and flavors.
- Add the bourbon and a handful of ice cubes.
- Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with an extra cherry and a lemon if you like.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh cherries for the best flavor. Frozen cherries can work too, just make sure they’re thawed.
- If you find the drink too tart or too sweet, adjust the amount of simple syrup or lemon to suit your taste.
- Experiment with different types of whiskey to find your favorite flavor combination.
When to Serve
This cocktail is great for summer parties, barbecues, or any time you want a refreshing and flavorful drink. It’s also a fabulous choice for a cozy night in or a romantic dinner.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
For this drink, a smooth and versatile bourbon works best. Brands like Buffalo Trace, Maker’s Mark, or Bulleit offer great quality that complements the other ingredients nicely.
Similar Cocktails
If you love the Cherry Whiskey Smash, here are five similar cocktails you might enjoy:
- Peach Whiskey Smash: Mixes sweet Southern charm with a bit of punch.
- Anejo Old Fashioned: A fantastic blend of tradition and modern flair.
- Mint Julep: A mix of minty freshness and the smooth kick of bourbon.
- Manhattan: Made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and a dash of bitters.
- Pomegranate Whiskey Smash: Whiskey mixed with sweet and slightly tangy pomegranate.
History
The Whiskey Smash is a classic cocktail that dates back to the 19th century. It belongs to the “smash” family of cocktails, which are characterized by muddling fruit and herbs to release their flavors. The Cherry Bourbon Smash is a delicious twist on the traditional recipe, adding sweet cherries to the mix.
FAQs
u003cstrongu003eCan I use a different type of fruit?u003c/strongu003e
Yes! While cherries are traditional, you can experiment with other fruits like peaches or blackberries.
u003cstrongu003eIs it okay to use bottled lemon juice?u003c/strongu003e
Fresh lemon juice is best for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can work too.
u003cstrongu003eCan I make this cocktail in advance?u003c/strongu003e
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the muddled fruit mixture ahead of time. Just add the whiskey and ice before serving.
Ingredients
- 2 oz whiskey
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 4 ripe cherries pitted
- Half a lemon cut into wedges
- Extra cherry and lemon twist for garnish optional
Instructions
- In your cocktail shaker, muddle the cherries and lemon wedges with the simple syrup to release their juices and flavors.
- Add the whiskey and a handful of ice cubes.
- Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with an extra cherry and a lemon twist if you like.
