Drink of the Week: Peachy Bourbon Smash

Greetings, NowOmaha.com readers! As we enjoy the warmth of summer, our Drink of the Week is here to add a touch of Southern comfort to your summer sipping: the Peachy Bourbon Smash. This delightful cocktail is a perfect blend of succulent peaches, robust bourbon, and refreshing mint. Let’s explore the world of bourbon smashes and learn how to craft this enticing drink at home.

Bourbon smash, an iconic Southern cocktail, is a member of the “smash” family, which is essentially a julep with a citrus twist. Smashes are usually comprised of a spirit, a sweetener, a herb, and seasonal fruits. The bourbon smash became a popular summer drink due to its refreshing nature and the harmonious balance of its ingredients.

Our Peachy Bourbon Smash is a sunny delight, with the sweetness of ripe summer peaches playing off the rich depth of bourbon. The addition of fresh mint brightens the cocktail, while a splash of lemon juice adds a pleasant tang.

Here’s the recipe for the Peachy Bourbon Smash:

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced, plus extra for garnish
• 6-8 fresh mint leaves, plus a sprig for garnish
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 ounce fresh lemon juice
• 2 ounces bourbon
• Crushed ice

Instructions:

1. In a mixing glass, muddle the peach slices, mint leaves, and sugar together until the sugar is dissolved and the peaches are well mashed.
2. Add the lemon juice and bourbon, and stir to combine.
3. Fill a short glass halfway with crushed ice, then strain the peach and bourbon mixture over the ice.
4. Top with more crushed ice if needed, and garnish with a peach slice and a sprig of mint.

Enjoy the fruity and refreshing flavors of the Peachy Bourbon Smash, and let the spirit of summer envelop you. Cheers!