Paul Kushner
The Plum Bourbon Smash is a bold and refreshing cocktail that beautifully blends the rich warmth of bourbon with the natural sweetness of ripe plums. A splash of lemon juice adds a bright citrusy contrast, while fresh mint enhances the drink with a cool, aromatic touch. Served over ice, this cocktail is smooth yet invigorating, making it an ideal choice for summer evenings or any occasion that calls for a unique twist on a classic smash.
This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for a sophisticated, fruit-forward drink, the Plum Bourbon Smash is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and refreshing finish.
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.
