Whiskey’s unique characteristics, such as its smokiness from malt, vanilla undertones from aging in oak casks, and robust flavor due to its high alcohol content, have made it a popular choice for creating cocktails. There are numerous amazing drink recipes that utilize whiskey as a base, including the classic whiskey sour, Manhattan, and whiskey smash. The whiskey smash, in particular, not only has an interesting origin story but also delivers delightful flavors.

During the 19th century, the whiskey smash made its debut in “The Bartenders Guide” by Jerry Thomas in 1887. Initially, it was considered a variation of the mint julep, another beloved whiskey-based cocktail made with Kentucky bourbon, simple syrup, and mint. The classic whiskey smash incorporates all three of these ingredients, but what sets it apart is the addition of muddled – or crushed – lemon wedges. This unique twist on the traditional recipe is the reason for the cocktail’s name.

Muddling plays a crucial role in crafting a good whiskey smash. When you muddle the lemon wedges, you not only release their juices but also extract the aromatic oils from their peels. By combining these citrusy flavors and aromatics with the smoky whiskey and the sweetness from the simple syrup, you create a richer and more vibrant taste than if you were to merely add a splash of lemon juice or grated lemon zest separately. The citrusy notes beautifully complement the freshness and cooling sensation of the mint leaves, which explains why this recipe has become a staple in cocktail bars worldwide.

Muddling is not limited to just the whiskey smash. It is an essential technique for various smash-type cocktails, such as the blackberry sage vodka smash and the bourbon & peach smash. To begin, you will need a quality cocktail muddler, which resembles a mini food mortar. With this tool, the process of muddling lemon wedges for a whiskey smash is deceptively simple. Place fresh lemon wedges in a cocktail shaker and use the muddler to press them until all the aromatic essential oils and juices are extracted and gathered at the bottom.

However, there is a catch – one must be careful not to over-muddle. Over-muddling occurs when excessive force is applied, resulting in completely smashed lemons. When muddling lemons, the objective is to extract juice from the flesh and oils from the colorful outer part of the skin (the zest) while avoiding disturbing the white-ish inner part (the rind), known for its bitterness. Over-muddling can introduce bitterness into the extract, resulting in a medicinal taste. The key is to use minimal force, gently pressing down and twisting the muddler. Rather than blindly mashing up the fruit, aim to press lightly and coax out the essences.

Don’t limit yourself to using just lemons in this technique. Feel free to muddle in berries or other fruits to add a unique twist to the traditional version of the cocktail, such as experimenting with a summertime peach whiskey smash.

It’s clear that the whiskey smash and its muddled lemon wedges offer a refreshing and flavorful experience. Whether you’re enjoying a classic version or putting your twist on it, the combination of whiskey, muddled citrus, and mint will surely impress your taste buds.