Bourbon Basil Smash
A modern classic that brilliantly marries American whiskey tradition with vibrant, herbaceous character. This descendant of the Gin Basil Smash swaps botanical gin for bourbon's rich vanilla and caramel, creating a refreshing yet complex cocktail.
25%
ABV
195
Calories
Rocks
Glass
Flavor Journey
History & Heritage
“The Bourbon Basil Smash is a direct adaptation of the Gin Basil Smash, created in 2008 by Jörg Meyer at Le Lion Bar de Paris in Hamburg, Germany. Meyer's creation was inspired by Dale DeGroff's modern revival of the 19th-century Whiskey Smash. The bourbon version emerged naturally during the craft cocktail renaissance as bartenders experimented with substituting different spirits in the successful gin template, bringing the basil-and-lemon combination back to its American whiskey roots while showcasing the versatility of the "smash" formula.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Chill a double old-fashioned glass in the freezer
Place fresh basil leaves in the bottom of a cocktail shaker
Add simple syrup and muddle basil gently with a twisting motion to release oils
Add bourbon and freshly squeezed lemon juice to the shaker
Fill shaker three-quarters full with ice cubes
Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until outside is well-frosted
Fill chilled glass with fresh ice (preferably one large cube)
Double strain through Hawthorne and fine-mesh strainer into the glass
Garnish with a fresh basil sprig, gently slapped to release aroma
Glassware
Served over ice in a double old-fashioned glass
Garnish
Gently slap against palm to release aroma before placing
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Use high-rye bourbon (90-105 proof) for spicy backbone to complement basil
Muddle gently - aggressive mashing releases bitter chlorophyll
Double straining is essential to remove basil fragments
Fresh basil and lemon juice are non-negotiable for proper flavor
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Bourbon Basil Smash.
Other Variations
Spirit-Forward
Increase bourbon to 2.5 oz for more robust whiskey character.
Changes
Extra Herbaceous
Use 15-20 basil leaves for more pronounced herbal character.
Changes
Spicy Basil Smash
Muddle jalapeño slices with basil for heat.
Changes
More to Explore
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Gin Basil Smash
A modern classic that showcases vibrant fresh basil with London Dry gin and lemon—intensely aromatic, refreshingly green, and beautifully balanced.
Mint Basil Smash
A modern classic that propelled fresh basil into the global cocktail lexicon. This vibrant, herbaceous gin cocktail marries muddled basil with gin, creating a drink that is both refreshingly simple and profoundly flavorful.
Strawberry Basil Smash
A modern classic cocktail that encapsulates the farm-to-glass ethos of 21st-century craft cocktail culture. A vibrant interplay of sweet strawberries, herbaceous basil, tart citrus, and botanical gin.