Paul Kushner
The Mint Apricot Bourbon Smash is a bold, refreshing cocktail with a mix of sweet, herbal, and smoky flavors. It blends smooth bourbon with ripe apricot or apricot nectar, fresh mint, and a splash of lemon juice to keep things bright. The apricot adds a soft fruitiness, while the mint cools it down and gives it a clean finish. Served over ice, it’s the kind of drink that feels laid-back but still full of depth. Great for warm evenings or when you want something with a little kick that’s not too heavy. Simple, strong, and easy to enjoy.
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Tasting Notes
The Mint Apricot Bourbon Smash is a vibrant, seasonal twist on the classic smash cocktail. Fresh mint brings a cool herbal note, beautifully complementing the rich, oaky warmth of bourbon. Apricot nectar adds lush sweetness and stone fruit depth, while soda water lightens the texture with a refreshing sparkle. It’s a well-balanced blend of sweet, bold, and bright—perfect for warm days or evenings when you want a flavorful, spirited sip. Each element shines through, making it both approachable and complex.
Equipment and Glassware
To make this smash, you’ll need a sturdy muddler or bar spoon to gently press the mint without bruising it. A jigger helps measure your ingredients accurately. Serve in a highball or rocks glass to let the mint, ice, and golden hue of the apricot-bourbon mix shine through. A cocktail pick or bar tongs make garnishing easy and mess-free.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 2 oz apricot nectar
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 5 mint leaves
- Soda water (to top)
- Fresh mint sprig (for garnish)
Instructions
- Muddle the Mint: In a highball glass, combine mint leaves and simple syrup. Gently muddle to release the mint’s aroma—don’t overdo it.
- Build the Drink: Fill the glass with ice. Pour in bourbon and apricot nectar.
- Top and Stir: Top with soda water and stir gently to mix.
- Garnish: Lightly slap a mint sprig between your hands to activate the oils, then place on top of the drink for a fragrant finish.
Pro Tips
- For deeper flavor, use a slightly overripe apricot nectar or add a splash of fresh apricot purée.
- Swap soda water for ginger beer for a spicier variation.
- If using store-bought apricot nectar, adjust the simple syrup based on sweetness.
- Try smoked or barrel-aged bourbon for added complexity.
When to Serve
This cocktail is ideal for summer afternoons, backyard barbecues, or early autumn evenings when fresh mint and stone fruit are still in season. It’s a great choice for bourbon lovers looking for a fruit-forward twist, and equally impressive as a welcome drink or signature cocktail at seasonal gatherings.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Soda water: Use Topo Chico, Q Mixers, or Fever-Tree for crisp bubbles.
- Bourbon: Try Buffalo Trace, Maker’s Mark, or Woodford Reserve for a smooth and flavorful base.
- Apricot nectar: Ceres, R.W. Knudsen, or Goya offer rich, quality options.
- Simple syrup: Homemade is best (1:1 sugar to water), or try Liber & Co. for premium bottled options.
Similar Cocktails
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 2 oz apricot nectar
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 5 mint leaves
- Soda water to top
- Fresh mint sprig for garnish
Instructions
- Muddle the Mint: In a highball glass, combine mint leaves and simple syrup. Gently muddle to release the mint’s aroma—don’t overdo it.
- Build the Drink: Fill the glass with ice. Pour in bourbon and apricot nectar.
- Top and Stir: Top with soda water and stir gently to mix.
- Garnish: Lightly slap a mint sprig between your hands to activate the oils, then place on top of the drink for a fragrant finish.
Notes
Pro Tips
- For deeper flavor, use a slightly overripe apricot nectar or add a splash of fresh apricot purée.
- Swap soda water for ginger beer for a spicier variation.
- If using store-bought apricot nectar, adjust the simple syrup based on sweetness.
- Try smoked or barrel-aged bourbon for added complexity.
