Whiskey Smash
A quintessential American cocktail that marks a pivotal point in mixed drink evolution. This vibrant and refreshing libation bridges the Mint Julep and Whiskey Sour, embodying 19th-century innovation with its masterful balance of sweet, sour, and strong, elevated by the aromatic lift of fresh mint.
22%
ABV
medium
Difficulty
rocks
Glass
Flavor Profile
History & Heritage
“The Whiskey Smash emerged in the 19th century as a simplified, less formal version of the Mint Julep. Jerry Thomas first documented it in his 1887 'Bar-Tender's Guide' as whiskey, sugar, water, and mint. The crucial addition of muddled lemon wedges was popularized by Dale DeGroff in the 1990s at New York's Rainbow Room, transforming the drink and introducing it to a new generation. This revival coincided with the craft cocktail movement, establishing the Whiskey Smash as a refreshing classic.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Cut half a lemon into 3-4 wedges and place in shaker
Add simple syrup to the lemon wedges
Muddle lemon wedges and syrup together with firm pressure to extract juice and oils
Add fresh mint leaves to the shaker
Gently press mint leaves 2-3 times with muddler, avoiding over-muddling
Add bourbon to the shaker
Fill shaker with ice cubes
Shake vigorously for 12-15 seconds until well-chilled
Double-strain into rocks glass filled with crushed ice
Glassware
Double old-fashioned or rocks glass with crushed ice
Garnish
Fresh sprig, slapped to release oils
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
out of 10
Sour
out of 10
Bitter
out of 10
Strong
out of 10
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Muddle lemon firmly to extract both juice and essential oils from peel
Only gently press mint to avoid bitter chlorophyll extraction
Double-strain to remove pulp and mint particles
Slap fresh mint sprig before garnishing to awaken aromatics
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Whiskey Smash.
Fruit-Infused Smash
Add blackberries, raspberries, or strawberries muddled with lemon
Changes
Rye Smash
Using rye whiskey creates a spicier, drier version
Changes
Gin Basil Smash
Modern classic by Jörg Meyer using gin and basil instead of whiskey and mint
Changes
Brandy Smash
The original and most popular Smash of the 19th century using brandy
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Champagne Julep
An elegant sparkling variation of the classic mint julep, combining bourbon with champagne for a refined, celebratory cocktail.
Mint Julep
A Southern staple of bourbon, sugar, and mint served in an icy silver cup—official drink of the Kentucky Derby.
Old Fashioned
The primordial cocktail—whiskey, sugar, bitters, and water—showcasing the base spirit in its purest, most aromatic form.