A Brief History of the Cherry Bourbon Smash
The Cherry Bourbon Smash is a modern twist on the classic “smash” cocktail, a family of drinks with roots in the 19th century. The smash, closely related to the Mint Julep, was originally defined by its simple yet flexible formula: a spirit base, muddled fruit, herbs, sweetener, and ice, often topped with a splash of soda. As noted in Imbibe Magazine, the smash was celebrated for its versatility, designed for hot days and seasonal ingredients, making it a forgiving canvas for bartenders and home mixologists alike.
While the exact origins of the Cherry Bourbon Smash are murky, its rise aligns with the cocktail renaissance of the early 2000s, when bartenders began reviving and reinventing classic recipes. Bourbon, with its rich, caramel notes, became a favorite base for fruit-forward smashes, and cherries—bursting with sweet-tart flavor—were a natural pairing, especially during summer cherry season. Blogs and recipe sites like Bourbon & Banter (2013) and The Drink Blog (2015) document early versions, emphasizing fresh cherries and bourbon as a quintessential summer duo.
The drink gained traction through social media and food blogs, with variations popping up on platforms like Reddit as early as 2015. Its popularity soared as home bartenders embraced its simplicity and adaptability, incorporating ingredients like mint, basil, or ginger beer. Today, the Cherry Bourbon Smash is a staple for summer gatherings, celebrated for its vibrant color and refreshing balance of sweet, sour, and smoky flavors.
Why You’ll Love the Cherry Bourbon Smash
This cocktail is a crowd-pleaser for a reason:
- Bold Flavors: The sweet-tart cherries complement bourbon’s warm, oaky notes.
- Easy to Make: No fancy equipment or skills required—just a muddler (or a wooden spoon!).
- Customizable: Swap herbs, sweeteners, or toppers to suit your taste.
- Seasonal Star: Perfect for showcasing summer cherries, though frozen cherries work year-round.
How to Make a Cherry Bourbon Smash
Below is a classic recipe for a Cherry Bourbon Smash, inspired by sources like Burrata and Bubbles and Sweet Tea + Thyme, with a nod to its summery vibe.
Ingredients (Serves 1)
- 5-6 fresh cherries, pitted (or thawed frozen cherries)
- 1/2 lemon, cut into wedges (or 1 oz fresh lemon juice)
- 1 tsp cane sugar (or 1/2 oz simple syrup)
- 3-4 fresh mint leaves (optional, for a classic smash vibe)
- 2 oz bourbon (e.g., Maker’s Mark or Bulleit)
- Ice
- 2 oz ginger beer or club soda (for topping)
- Garnish: fresh cherry, mint sprig, or lemon slice
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker or mason jar
- Muddler (or the back of a wooden spoon)
- Rocks glass or highball glass
Instructions
- Muddle the Base: In a cocktail shaker or mason jar, add the pitted cherries, lemon wedges (or juice), sugar (or simple syrup), and mint leaves (if using). Gently muddle until the cherries release their juices and the sugar dissolves, about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to over-muddle the mint, as it can turn bitter.
- Add Bourbon and Ice: Pour in the bourbon and fill the shaker halfway with ice.
- Shake It Up: Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to chill and combine the flavors.
- Strain and Serve: Fill a rocks glass with ice. Strain the mixture into the glass, leaving the muddled solids behind for a cleaner drink (or pour everything in for a rustic style).
- Top and Garnish: Top with ginger beer or club soda for a fizzy finish. Garnish with a fresh cherry, mint sprig, or lemon slice.
- Enjoy: Sip and savor the sweet, tart, and smoky goodness!
Tips for the Perfect Smash
- Cherry Choice: Fresh, dark sweet cherries (like Bing) are ideal, but frozen cherries work well when out of season. Thaw and pat dry to avoid excess water.
- Bourbon Selection: A smooth, mid-range bourbon (80-100 proof) like Buffalo Trace or Basil Hayden’s complements the fruit without overpowering it.
- Make It Your Own: Try basil or thyme instead of mint, or swap lemon for lime for a zestier twist. For extra cherry flavor, use cherry-infused bourbon or a splash of cherry soda.
- Batch It: Hosting a crowd? Muddle the fruit and mix with bourbon in a pitcher, then top with soda just before serving.
Fun Variations to Try
- Cherry Lime Bourbon Smash: Swap lemon for lime juice and use cherry-infused bourbon for a tart, vibrant spin.
- Cherry Old Fashioned Smash: Add a dash of orange bitters and cherry liqueur for a nod to the classic Old Fashioned.
- Mocktail Version: Skip the bourbon and use cherry juice or extra soda for a refreshing non-alcoholic drink.
A Toast to Summer
Whether you’re lounging on the patio or hosting a barbecue, the Cherry Bourbon Smash is your go-to for a refreshing, flavorful cocktail. Its history as a flexible, fruit-forward drink makes it a timeless choice, and its ease of preparation ensures you’ll be sipping in no time. So grab some cherries, your favorite bourbon, and get smashing!
