Bourbon Smash


A citrus‑mint bourbon cocktail with juicy brightness and herbal lift.


Base spirit
Whiskey
Style
Sour
Glassware
Rocks glass

The Bourbon Smash muddles fresh lemon with mint and simple syrup before adding bourbon for a refreshing, aromatic whiskey sour variation. Shaken hard, it becomes frothy, bright, and flavorful, with mint adding cooling balance to the citrus and bourbon’s vanilla‑oak depth.


A Bourbon Smash over crushed ice with mint bouquet.

Ingredients

Servings
  • 2 oz bourbon
  • 3 lemon wedges
  • 0.75 oz simple syrup
  • 6–8 mint leaves

Did you know?

Smashes are among America’s oldest drink families; the bourbon variation became a summer staple thanks to Jerry Thomas–era bartending manuals.

Source:Imbibe; Jerry Thomas archives

Bartender's Note

Use crushed ice for proper dilution and texture.

How to make the Bourbon Smash

  1. 1Muddle lemon and syrup.
  2. 2Add mint and press lightly.
  3. 3Add bourbon and ice.
  4. 4Shake.
  5. 5Strain over crushed ice.
  6. 6Garnish.

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