Whiskey Smash Cocktail American South Recipe

The first known mention of the Whiskey Smash appeared in Jerry Thomas's 1862 book "How to Mix Drinks or The Bon Vivant's Companion," which is one of the oldest and most influential cocktail books. Thomas, often referred to as the "father of American mixology," included the Whiskey Smash as a variation of the Mint Julep, another classic whiskey cocktail. The Smash was designed to be a simpler, more approachable version, featuring fewer ingredients and a quicker preparation time. A typical Whiskey Smash includes bourbon or rye whiskey, fresh lemon wedges, mint leaves, simple syrup, and crushed ice. The preparation involves muddling the lemon wedges and mint leaves with simple syrup to release their essential oils and juices, creating a fresh and aromatic base. The whiskey is then added, and the mixture is shaken vigorously with ice to blend the flavors. The resulting cocktail is strained into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice and garnished with a sprig of mint.