Paul Kushner
The Plum Bourbon Smash is a rich, fruit-forward drink with a smooth, earthy base. Fresh plums bring a deep sweetness and slight tartness that pair perfectly with the boldness of bourbon. Add a little citrus and maybe a few mint leaves, and you’ve got a drink that’s strong but not too heavy. It’s great for late summer and early fall, when you want something seasonal but still easy to sip. The flavors are layered but approachable, making it a solid pick for bourbon fans looking to mix it up without losing that classic feel.
This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy
Tasting Notes
The Plum Bourbon Smash is a beautifully fruity, herbaceous, and citrusy cocktail that combines rich bourbon with the natural sweetness of ripe plums and the brightness of fresh lemon juice. The muddled mint adds a cooling freshness, while simple syrup smooths the drink’s tart and smoky balance.
If topped with club soda, it becomes a lightly sparkling, ultra-refreshing sipper. The garnish of plum and mint enhances both the aroma and the visual appeal.
Equipment and Glassware
To craft the Plum Bourbon Smash, gather a cocktail shaker, muddler, strainer, and a rocks glass for the best presentation. Start by muddling ripe plum slices and fresh mint in the shaker to release their flavors. Add bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of simple syrup, then fill with ice and shake well to blend and chill the ingredients. Double strain through a fine mesh strainer into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice, ensuring a smooth texture while keeping the flavors bold and well-balanced. Garnish with a plum slice and mint sprig for an elegant finishing touch.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe plums pitted and sliced
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 4-6 mint leaves
- Club soda optional
- Mint sprig and plum slice for garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, add the sliced plums and fresh mint leaves.
- Use a muddler to mash them together until the plums are well broken down and the mint is fragrant.
- Pour in the bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Fill the shaker with ice cubes.
- Shake vigorously for about 20-30 seconds until well-chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice. You can use a fine mesh strainer if you prefer a smoother drink without bits of plum.
- If you like a fizzy cocktail, top it off with a splash of club soda.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint and a slice of plum.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Plum Bourbon Smash.
Pro Tips
- Use ripe, juicy plums for the best balance of sweetness and tartness.
- For a deeper flavor, let the plums and mint sit in the simple syrup for a few minutes before muddling.
- Double strain if you prefer a smoother texture without fruit pulp.
- If you prefer a lighter cocktail, increase the club soda or add a splash of ginger beer for extra warmth.
When to Serve
The Plum Bourbon Smash is a versatile and seasonal cocktail, perfect for late summer and early fall gatherings. Its rich bourbon warmth and juicy plum sweetness make it an excellent choice for whiskey lovers seeking a fresh, fruit-forward twist. Whether served at a bourbon tasting, a cozy evening by the fire, or a casual backyard get-together, this cocktail offers a balanced blend of bold, smooth, and refreshing flavors. With its vibrant color, crisp mint aroma, and deep, layered taste, the Plum Bourbon Smash is a standout drink for those looking to elevate their cocktail experience with a seasonal flair.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Bourbon: Woodford Reserve, Buffalo Trace, Four Roses Small Batch
- Simple Syrup: Homemade (1:1 sugar to water) or high-quality organic syrup
- Club Soda: Fever-Tree, Topo Chico, or Perrier for a crisp, clean fizz
- Plums: Choose red or black plums for a sweeter, juicier flavor
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 2 ripe plums pitted and sliced
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 4-6 mint leaves
- Club soda optional
- Mint sprig and plum slice for garnish
Instructions
Muddle Plums and Mint:
- In a cocktail shaker, add the sliced plums and fresh mint leaves.
- Use a muddler to mash them together until the plums are well broken down and the mint is fragrant.
Add Liquids:
- Pour in the bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup.
Shake:
- Fill the shaker with ice cubes.
- Shake vigorously for about 20-30 seconds until well-chilled.
Strain:
- Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice. You can use a fine mesh strainer if you prefer a smoother drink without bits of plum.
Top with Club Soda (optional):
- If you like a fizzy cocktail, top it off with a splash of club soda.
Garnish:
- Garnish with a sprig of mint and a slice of plum.
Serve:
- Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Plum Bourbon Smash.
Notes
- Use ripe, juicy plums for the best balance of sweetness and tartness.
- For a deeper flavor, let the plums and mint sit in the simple syrup for a few minutes before muddling.
- Double strain if you prefer a smoother texture without fruit pulp.
- If you prefer a lighter cocktail, increase the club soda or add a splash of ginger beer for extra warmth.
