The Smoked Peach Maple Bourbon Smash is an enticing cocktail that combines the rich flavors of smoked maple bourbon with the sweetness of grilled peaches and a touch of maple syrup. Balanced with the zing of ginger beer and lemon juice, this drink offers a complex and refreshing experience, perfect for those who enjoy a smoky twist on their cocktails.
This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy
Ingredients
- 1 peach
- 1/4 oz maple syrup
- 2 oz smoked maple bourbon whiskey
- 3 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 sprig fresh thyme
- 2 oz non-alcoholic spicy ginger beer
- 1/2 oz lemon juice
- 1 oz soda water
- Grilled peach slice for garnish
- Sprig of fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- In a shaker add 8 ice cubes, a grilled peach half, a sprig of fresh thyme, 3 dashes of Angostura bitters, and 2 ounces of smoked maple bourbon whiskey.
- Shake the mixture vigorously until the shaker becomes cold and the peach is thoroughly broken down, releasing its flavors into the mix.
- Prepare a cocktail glass by filling it with 5-6 fresh ice cubes.
- Strain the contents of the shaker into the glass. This may require some effort to get most of the peach flesh through the strainer, so keep shaking until the glass is more than half full. If your hand gets too cold, wrap a kitchen towel around the shaker for comfort.
- Top off the drink with 2 ounces of spicy ginger beer, 1/2 ounce of fresh lemon juice, and 1 ounce of soda water.
- Stir gently to combine all the flavors.
- Garnish your Smoked Peach Maple Bourbon Smash with a grilled peach slice, a sprig of fresh thyme, and, if desired, edible flowers for a beautiful and aromatic finish.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For an extra smoky flavor, consider grilling the peach over wood chips or a charcoal grill.
- If you prefer a less sweet drink, adjust the amount of maple syrup or ginger beer.
- To enhance the visual appeal, use a clear glass to showcase the vibrant colors of the cocktail and garnish.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice will provide a brighter and more balanced acidity than bottled juice.
Tasting Notes
The Smoked Peach Maple Bourbon Smash is a richly layered cocktail, offering a harmonious blend of smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors. The grilled peach imparts a deep, caramelized sweetness that pairs beautifully with the smokiness of the bourbon and the warmth of the maple syrup. The ginger beer adds a refreshing spiciness, while the lemon juice cuts through with a bright, citrusy zing. Topped with soda water for a light effervescence, this cocktail is both complex and refreshing, with each sip offering a new depth of flavor. Garnished with a grilled peach slice and fresh thyme, it’s as visually captivating as it is delicious.