Peach and Mint Bourbon Smash

Toast to summer with a Peach and Mint Bourbon Smash. This cocktail, from chef Megan Mitchell, is best enjoyed when peaches are at their peak.

Peach and Mint Bourbon Smash

Lightly fruity, Peach and Mint Bourbon Smash is a drink best enjoyed on the first Saturday in May. This take on a southern classic, the julep, has the addition of citrus fruit and peach. The primary difference between a smash and a julep is this addition, along with the method of preparation: a smash is often shaken, "smashed" version of a julep that includes muddled lemon, while a traditional Julep features only bourbon, sugar, and mint served in a silver cup over crushed ice. All smashes are considered juleps, but not all juleps are smashes.

The Recipe

Muddle them with mint and mix in your favorite bourbon for an even-keel cocktail that lets the main ingredient shine. If you're hungry, a Mixed Sweet Pepper and Green Bean Salad is an excellent garden-fresh accompaniment.

Ingredients

Yield: 1 drink 

  • 1/2 yellow peach, roughly chopped
  • 2 sprigs mint, plus more for garnish
  • 2 oz. bourbon
  • 1 oz. lemon juice
  • 1/2 oz. maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup ice
Peach and Mint Bourbon Smash

Instructions

  • To a cocktail shaker add the chopped peach and mint sprigs. Muddle with a muddler or a wooden spoon until broken down and the mint is fragrant, about 20 seconds.
  • Next, add in the bourbon, lemon juice, maple syrup, and ice. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
  • Fill a short glass with ice and then pour in the cocktail through a fine mesh strainer so it catches the mint and peach pulp. Garnish with a mint sprig.

Recipe and photos by Megan Mitchell.