Last May we featured a somewhat complicated, delicate to make, spring classic- the Mint Julep. While we had a great time figuring out the science behind the perfect julep, and it’s a great occasion drink, it was something that we wouldn’t make as a daily cocktail - too much careful attention and planning. (You can read about our julep exploits here ... )While we were looking for classic cocktails to feature this year, we found the perfect answer - the Bourbon Smash. Much easier to make, with the same fresh flavor profile as a julep. Dating back to at least 1862, the Smash is listed as a more casual variant of the Mint Julep. Historically it’s unclear which came first- whether the Smash is a dressed down Julep or whether the Julep was a more fancy follower of the Smash. Either way, both are fabulous in their own right, and in their own situation. A Smash is literally "smashing" the ingredients/fruits and adding spirits and ice. So, fun to note, all Julep's are Smashes, however, all Smashes are not Juleps.
Although there have been countless variations on the Smash, with some recipes being as vague as "a spirit base, seasonal fruit, sweetener and ice", we used the most original recipe that we could locate, and ended up with the perfect sipping drink for summer nights on the porch.
RECIPE
Half a lemon, cut into 4 wedges
6-8 mint leaves
1 oz simple syrup or 1T. sugar
2 oz of your favorite bourbon
In a shaker, muddle and smash the lemon, mint, and sugar
Add bourbon
shake
Strain into a rocks glass with crushed ice or one to two large cubes
Garnish with fruit and/or mint
Enjoy!
We hope that you enjoy this classic as much as we have - it's sure to become a summer staple for both of us!
Cheers!
Christine and Stacy 