Cilantro Pisco Smash

The Cilantro Pisco Smash is fresh, bright, and full of citrus with a subtle herbal twist. Pisco’s light grape base blends with lemon and lime juice for a sharp, tart flavor. A few sprigs of cilantro bring something unexpected green, clean, and slightly peppery. Simple syrup ties it all together with just enough sweetness. This drink is easy to make, quick to shake, and great when you want something crisp and cool that’s different from the usual citrus cocktails.

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Tasting Notes

You’ll notice a burst of citrus right away sharp lemon and lime take the lead. Then the cilantro kicks in, adding a grassy, almost peppery note that’s refreshing but not overpowering. Pisco gives the drink a smooth, slightly floral body with a clean finish. The simple syrup softens the edges without turning the drink sweet. It’s tart, light, and just earthy enough to feel unique. You get the brightness of a sour, the balance of a smash, and a bold herbal pop that keeps you coming back for another sip.

Equipment and Glassware

All you need is a cocktail shaker, a muddler or spoon, a jigger, and a fine strainer if you want a smoother finish. Muddle the cilantro gently to release the oils without tearing it up too much. Shake with ice for a solid chill. This drink works well in a double rocks glass or a small coupe if you want a cleaner look. A metal shaker chills the fastest, but any shaker will do the job. Optional tools include a citrus squeezer if you’re using fresh juice which makes a big difference here.

Ingredients

• 4 cilantro leaves with tender stems
• 1.5 oz pisco
• 1 oz lemon juice
• 1 oz lime juice
• 0.5 oz simple syrup
• Cilantro sprig or a thin lime wheel, for garnish

Instructions

• In a shaker, muddle the cilantro gently to release its oils.
• Add pisco, lemon juice, lime juice, and simple syrup.
• Fill with ice and shake well until chilled.
• Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
• Garnish with a cilantro sprig or a thin lime wheel.

Pro Tips

• Muddle gently too much force can turn cilantro bitter.
• Use fresh juice for the best flavor.
• Double strain if you want a cleaner texture.
• Add a pinch of salt to brighten the herbs.
• Try agave syrup instead of simple syrup for a deeper flavor.
• Use a citrus-forward Pisco if you want a sharper profile.
• Add one extra cilantro leaf if you like it bold.
• Chill your glass for a crisper drink.
• Shake hard to bring out the citrus oils.
• Don’t skip the garnish it adds a fresh hit of aroma.

When to Serve

This drink is made for warm days, afternoon happy hours, and anytime you want something that tastes super fresh. It’s a great fit for food with spice think tacos, ceviche, or grilled chicken. It also works well as a welcome drink at parties or dinners where you want to serve something a little different. The citrus and herbs make it feel light and easy, while the Pisco keeps it interesting. If you’re into mojitos, caipirinhas, or citrus sours, this is a fun switch-up.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Pisco:

• Barsol Quebranta (smooth and easy to mix)
• Macchu Pisco (bold and full-bodied)
• Capurro Pisco (floral with good structure)

Simple Syrup:

• Homemade (1:1 sugar and water, easy and fresh)
• Liber & Co. (clean and well-balanced)
• Small Hand Foods (if you want something premium)

Similar Cocktails

• Passion Fruit Pisco Sour
• Pisco Spritz
• Limoncello Gin Fizz
• Rum Cobbler
• Gin Violette