Is there any cocktail more refreshing than a bourbon smash? In this cocktail, Basil Hayden® Kentucky Straight Bourbon is infused with fresh muddled cherries, basil, lemon wedges, and just a hint of honey syrup. For a more refined drinking experience, the recipe strains the muddled fruit and herbs out and serves the cocktail over a big rock to maintain maximum chill. The sweet-tart cherries and fragrant basil play nicely with the smooth, lightly spiced notes of the Basil Hayden®, but this bourbon’s versatility means you could swap in almost any of your favorite fruits or herbs.
To make the honey syrup, combine equal parts honey and water in a saucepan set over medium heat, and stir until the honey is dissolved. Let it cool and store in the fridge for about 2 weeks. Simple syrup would also work great here.
—Max Rappaport
This recipe is shared in partnership with Basil Hayden®.
Basil Hayden® Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 40% Alc./Vol. ©2021 Kentucky Springs Distilling Co., Clermont, KY —The Editors
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