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This is an incredibly refreshing mixed drink that commands a richness of flavor above and beyond that of the original. The fresh, ripe raspberries in combination with the fizziness of the carbonated drink create a wonderful mouthfeel that accentuates unique sweetness of the bourbon. We choose not to strain our raspberry bourbon smash because of that, but you can certainly opt for the opposite and stick to the origins of the classic drink.
What is a Whiskey Smash?
A classic whiskey smash is an old fashioned all American cocktail made with bourbon whiskey, lemon, mint, and sugar. The lemon wedges, fresh spearmint leaves and sugar are muddled (smashed) together, the bourbon is added and the cocktail is shaken with ice, then strained into a glass with ice. Over time the sugar gave way to simple syrup and crushed ice (partially) to club soda.
The raspberry is a relatively new whiskey smash variation.
Ingredients
- Bourbon. Use your favorite brand or one with rye in the grain bill as it will have more fruity and spicy notes.
- Fresh mint. The key element for any smash cocktail, in this case more is more - do not hesitate to be generous with the amount of mint you muddle. Not only does mint elevate the notes of bourbon whiskey, it is a perfect match for raspbeeries.
- Raspberries. Fresh fruit is a much better option, but you can use an organic raspberry preserve if in a pinch. Just skip the sweetener if you take the preserve route.
- Lime. Its milder acidity compared to that of lemon makes it a much better fit for raspberries which carry a certain degree of tartness.
- Simple syrup or agave. Either one will do the job, it is a matter of personal preference. We always have agave syrup, whereas we only make simple syrup once in a while.
- Raspberry ale or soda. A well brewed raspberry ale cannot be outmatched - it adds a lot of flavor and contributes to a richer mouthfeel.
Types of Raspberry Ales You Can Use
- Raspberry wheat ales - typically very highly carbonated
- Raspberry blonde ales
- Raspberry Kolsch - not the easiest to find but if you happen upon one try it in this cocktail
- Raspberry Sour(s) - nothing too puckery, we love the Raspberry Provincial by Funkwerks Brewing - among other things its color is a striking pink!
- Framboise - Belgian lambic ale fermented with raspberries, perhaps the world's most famous fruited sour
What Can I Use in Place of Raspberry Ale?
Substitute with a raspberry flavored soda or carbonated water. Be mindful of how sweet it is and cut down on the sweet additive accordingly.
What Can I Substitute for Bourbon?
Our top recommendation is rye whiskey for its floral and vanilla notes and pleasant spice.
Step-by-step: Bourbon Whiskey Smash with Raspberries
To make a raspberry whiskey smash:
- in a cocktail shaker muddle the raspberries and mint (or raspberry preserve and mint)
- add the bourbon, agave and lime juice
- top with crushed ice and shake vigorously to blend the flavors
- pour into a glass (if straining, add crushed ice to glass first)
- top with raspberry ale, stir and enjoy garnished with a sprig of mint
To muddle fresh raspberries simply add a few to the bottom of a cocktail shaker or shaker pint glass and use a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon to smash them until they acquire the consitency of a puree.
Glassware
Truth be told - this cocktail is much easier to sip on from a wider glass than a tall skinny one. Even though it arguably looks better in a highball, go for a classic, old-fashioned rocks glass instead.
Other Cocktails You Might Like
Mojito with Berliner Weisse
Strawberry Beer Lemonade Vodka Cocktail
Kriek Manhattan
Kolsch Watermelon Bourbon Cocktail
Recipe
Bourbon Whiskey Smash with Fresh Raspberries & Raspberry Ale
Ingredients
- 8-10 fresh raspberries*
- 8-10 fresh mint leaves spearmint recommended
- 1 ½ oz bourbon whiskey
- ½ lime juice of
- ½ tablespoon agave syrup or simple syrup**
- 2-4 oz raspberry ale or soda***
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker muddle the raspberries and mint leaves.
- Add the bourbon, agave syrup and lime juice. Top with crushed ice, close the lid and shake vigorously.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice OR simply pour the entire mixture into a glass. (Choose according to your preference for a clear cocktail or a richer mixture.)
- Top with the raspberry ale or soda, give a final stir and garnish with a mint sprig.
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