Cherry Whiskey Smash

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Cocktail History

The Cherry Whiskey Smash is a modern cocktail that was created by Alex Sukopp, former bartender of Sips From Scripts, as a Wisconsin-inspired variation of the classic Whiskey Smash. Though the specifics vary, the template typically consists of a base spirit, a sweetener, and a combination of muddled fruit and herbs, all served on crushed ice. This one follows this same build with the addition of sweet cherry flavor.

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Cocktail Ingredients

To make this cocktail, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Bourbon: This is a type of whiskey made in the United States with at least 51% corn, grains, malted barley, and water. I used Knob Creek 9 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon.

Simple Syrup: This is a sweetener made with white sugar and water. I made mine using this stovetop recipe.

Lemon Slices: This is a slice of lemon that has been cut into a half wheel shape.

Mint Leaves: This is an herb. I used Mojito mint leaves.

Cherry Bitters: This is a food product made with cherries, herbs, botanicals, and alcohol. I used Fee Brothers Cherry Bitters.

Mint Sprig: This is an herb. I used fresh Mojito mint.

Cherry: This is a fruit that has been soaked in rich syrup.

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Bartending Tools

To make this cocktail, you’ll need the following bar tools:

Jigger: This is used to measure and pour ingredients. I used the Japanese jigger from the A Bar Above 14-Piece Silver Bar Set.

Muddler: This is used to muddle ingredients. I used the HQY Stainless Steel Cocktail Muddler.

Bar Spoon: This is used to stir ingredients. I used the Barfly Stainless Steel Teardrop Bar Spoon.

Paring Knife: This is used to cut citrus into slices or wheels. I used the OXO Good Grips 3.5 Inch Paring Knife.

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Tasting Notes

This cocktail has the following flavor profile:

• Appearance: Orange-yellow color

• Aroma: Tart citrus and cool mint

• Taste: Refreshing ice-cold bourbon flavor mellowed out by sugary mint and cherry

• Finish: Tangy lemon and lingering cherry

Kendall’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Kendall’s Take: "You really can’t go wrong with this simple and refreshing template! I enjoyed my first time trying it quite a bit; the bourbon is there yet light enough to enjoy on a hot day, and the nod to Wisconsin with the cherries is a nice touch. My only qualm was the smashed herbs and citrus in the bottom because I’m not big on chunks floating around in my drink. I would much rather have those ingredients muddled in the shaker and strained instead of muddled in the glass. Then it would be perfect for me, but again, it wouldn't be a Cherry Whiskey Smash without them."

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Recipe