Paul Kushner
Bold, refreshing, and beautifully balanced, the Cranberry Bourbon Smash is the perfect cocktail for any season. The deep, rich notes of bourbon pair wonderfully with tart cranberry juice and fresh lemon, while muddled cranberries and mint add a burst of fresh flavor. A touch of simple syrup rounds out the drink with subtle sweetness, and a splash of club soda adds a refreshing fizz if desired. Served over ice and garnished with a sprig of mint and vibrant cranberries, this cocktail is a go-to for holiday gatherings, cozy nights in, or anytime you want a sophisticated yet easygoing sip. Cheers!
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Tasting Notes
This cocktail delivers a bold yet refreshing balance of tart cranberry, bright citrus, and rich bourbon. Muddled cranberries and mint add a fresh, fruity depth, while a splash of club soda (optional) lightens the drink with a crisp finish. It’s a vibrant, slightly sweet, and aromatic bourbon cocktail.
Equipment and Glassware
A muddler is key for extracting the flavors from fresh cranberries and mint. A cocktail shaker ensures proper mixing, while a fine strainer provides a smooth pour. Serve in a rocks glass over ice, and garnish with mint and cranberries for a festive, eye-catching presentation.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 1/2 oz lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 1/4 cup cranberries
- 6-8 mint leaves
- Club soda optional
- Mint sprig and cranberries for garnish
Instructions
- Muddle: In a cocktail shaker, muddle the fresh cranberries and mint leaves together to release their flavors.
- Add Liquids: Add the bourbon, cranberry juice, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Shake: Fill the shaker with ice cubes and shake vigorously for about 20 seconds.
- Strain: Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Top Off: If desired, top off with a splash of club soda for a bit of fizz.
- Garnish: Garnish with a sprig of mint and a few cranberries.
- Serve: Enjoy your refreshing Cranberry Bourbon Smash.
Pro Tips
- For a deeper cranberry flavor, let the berries sit in bourbon before muddling.
- Use fresh-squeezed lemon juice for optimal brightness.
- A high-quality bourbon like Buffalo Trace or Four Roses enhances the balance of flavors.
- If using club soda, add just a splash to avoid overpowering the rich bourbon notes.
When to Serve
This cocktail is perfect for fall and winter gatherings, Thanksgiving celebrations, or holiday parties. Its tart, slightly sweet profile makes it an excellent choice for festive occasions, but it’s equally enjoyable as a refreshing bourbon drink year-round.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
Opt for a smooth yet bold bourbon like Elijah Craig, Woodford Reserve, or Bulleit. Use 100% cranberry juice for a more natural tartness. If adding club soda, go for a high-quality, lightly carbonated option like Fever-Tree or Q Mixers for a refined finish.
Similar Cocktails
If you enjoy Cranberry Bourbon Smash, here are five similar cocktails to try:
- Mango Bourbon Smash
- Kiwi Bourbon Smash
- Peach Bourbon Lemonade
- Cranberry Collins
- Christmas Kentucky Buck
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz cranberry juice
- 1/2 oz lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 1/4 cup cranberries
- 6-8 mint leaves
- Club soda optional
- Mint sprig and cranberries for garnish
Instructions
- Muddle: In a cocktail shaker, muddle the fresh cranberries and mint leaves together to release their flavors.
- Add Liquids: Add the bourbon, cranberry juice, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Shake: Fill the shaker with ice cubes and shake vigorously for about 20 seconds.
- Strain: Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Top Off: If desired, top off with a splash of club soda for a bit of fizz.
- Garnish: Garnish with a sprig of mint and a few cranberries.
- Serve: Enjoy your refreshing Cranberry Bourbon Smash.
