Blueberry Bourbon Smash Cocktail
A refreshing whiskey smash riff that muddles fresh blueberries with basil (or mint), lemon, and simple syrup, then shakes with bourbon over ice. Bright, fruity, and perfectly balanced.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Muddler
- Jigger
- Strainer
- Rocks glass
- Bar spoon
- Fine mesh sieve (optional)
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 0.5 oz lemon juice fresh
- 6-8 blueberries fresh or thawed frozen
- 2-3 leaves basil or mint
- ice cubes for shaking and serving
- club soda optional, splash to top
- 1 wedge lemon for garnish
- 1 sprig basil or mint, for garnish
Instructions
- Add blueberries, basil (or mint) leaves, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker. Gently muddle until the berries release their juice.
- Pour in bourbon and fresh lemon juice, then add ice to the shaker.
- Shake for 10–15 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice (fine-strain if you prefer fewer seeds/skins).
- Optional: add a small splash of club soda to lighten.
- Garnish with a lemon wedge and a basil (or mint) sprig. Serve immediately.
Notes
Swap basil for mint for a cooler herbal note. Homemade simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water) lets you tweak sweetness. Using a few frozen blueberries as ice keeps the drink cold without dilution.