• Bourbon or Rye Whiskey
  60 ml (2 oz)

  Use your favorite quality whiskey
• Fresh Lemon Wedges
  3 pieces

  About half a lemon, cut into wedges
• Simple Syrup
  25 ml (0.75 oz)

  1:1 ratio sugar to water, or to taste
• Fresh Mint Leaves
  8 pieces

  Plus extra for garnish
• Crushed Ice
  1 cup

  For serving

• Muddler
• Cocktail shaker
• Jigger
• Fine mesh strainer
• Rocks glass

1. 1

   Add the lemon wedges and simple syrup to the shaker.

2. 2

   Gently muddle the lemons to release juice and oils.

3. 3

   Add the mint leaves and lightly press to release aroma—don’t over-muddle to avoid bitterness.

4. 4

   Pour in the whiskey and fill the shaker with ice.

5. 5

   Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds.

6. 6

   Double strain into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice.

7. 7

   Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and, if desired, a lemon wheel.

• Refreshing and vibrant, perfect for warm weather
• Simple ingredients you likely already have on hand
• Endlessly customizable with different whiskeys or fruit
• Brings out the best in whiskey’s flavor profile
• A crowd-pleaser that appeals to both whiskey fans and newcomers

The Whiskey Smash dates back to at least the mid-19th century, first appearing in print in Jerry Thomas’s legendary 1862 'Bartender’s Guide.' It’s a close cousin to the Mint Julep and the classic Sour, but the Smash distinguishes itself with its use of muddled lemon and mint—literally ‘smashing’ the ingredients together. This approach made it a favorite during the golden age of cocktails and a mainstay in American bars ever since.