Paul Kushner
Refreshing, zesty, and naturally sweet, the Gin Mandarin Smash is a vibrant cocktail that bursts with citrus flavor. Fresh mandarin is muddled to release its juicy sweetness, while a splash of lemon juice and a touch of honey enhance the drink’s bright, well-rounded character. The botanical notes of gin provide depth, making each sip both crisp and aromatic. Served over ice and garnished with a mandarin slice and a mint sprig, this cocktail is perfect for brunch, sunny afternoons, or anytime you’re in the mood for a smooth and refreshing citrus-forward drink. Cheers!
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Tasting Notes
The Gin Mandarin Smash is a fresh and vibrant cocktail, with the natural sweetness of mandarin balanced by the herbal notes of gin and a touch of tart lemon. The honey adds a delicate sweetness, while the mint garnish provides a refreshing aroma that enhances the overall experience.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a cocktail shaker to mix and chill the drink, a muddler to extract juice and oils from the mandarin, and a strainer for a smooth pour. A jigger ensures accurate measurements, and a rocks glass is perfect for serving this cocktail over ice.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz gin
- 1 fresh mandarin peeled
- 0.5 oz lemon juice
- 0.25 oz honey
- Mandarin slice for garnish
- Mint sprig for garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle the peeled mandarin until thoroughly crushed and juicy.
- Add the lemon juice, honey, and gin to the shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake well until the ingredients are combined and chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a mandarin slice and a mint sprig before serving.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh, ripe mandarins for the best natural sweetness and juice.
- For a stronger herbal touch, muddle a few mint leaves with the mandarin.
- Chill the glass beforehand for an extra crisp drinking experience.
- Swap honey for agave syrup if you prefer a slightly lighter sweetness.
- If you like a bubbly twist, top with club soda or sparkling water.
When to Serve
The Gin Mandarin Smash is perfect for brunches, garden parties, spring and summer gatherings, or anytime you crave a refreshing citrus-forward cocktail. Its bright color and fresh flavor make it a standout option for warm-weather sipping.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
For the best experience, use:
- Gin: Hendrick’s, Tanqueray, Bombay Sapphire, or The Botanist for floral notes
- Honey: Raw or locally sourced honey for the best flavor
- Mandarins: Opt for fresh, seedless mandarins like Clementines or Satsumas
Similar Cocktails
If you enjoy Gin Mandarin Smash, here are five similar cocktails to try:
- Limoncello Champagne Cocktail
- Watermelon Collins
- Raspberry Sorbet 75
- Butterfly Bees Knees
- Pretty in Pink
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz gin
- 1 fresh mandarin peeled
- 0.5 oz lemon juice
- 0.25 oz honey
- Mandarin slice for garnish
- Mint sprig for garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle the peeled mandarin until thoroughly crushed and juicy.
- Add the lemon juice, honey, and gin to the shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake well until the ingredients are combined and chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a mandarin slice and a mint sprig before serving.
Notes
- For a sweeter drink, increase the amount of honey or use a mandarin with higher natural sweetness.
- Chill the glass beforehand for an extra-refreshing experience.
- Garnish with an additional fig slice for a visually appealing and complementary flavor.
