Experience the vibrant fusion of flavors with the Whiskey Smash –
Welcome to Shake, Sip, Serve, your one-stop shop for all things bartending.
I’m your host, KAD, and I’ve been slinging drinks and navigating the world of hospitality for over two decades.
The past 15 years, I’ve perfected my bartending skills, experimented with countless flavor combinations, and learning a thing or two about how to keep the party going behind the bar.
Whether you’re a seasoned bartender like me just looking for some fresh inspiration or a complete beginner who is eager to whip up impressive cocktails at home, Shake, Sip, Serve is here to be your guide.
In the below blog, I’ll be sharing my knowledge and experience on everything from classic cocktails and innovative new creations to essential bartending techniques and industry secrets. I’ll also be offering tips on stocking your home bar, mastering the art of presentation, and creating a memorable experience for your guests.
So, grab your shaker, dust off your favorite glassware, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of bartending!
Let’s Shake, Sip, and Serve up something amazing together.
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Why the Whiskey Smash Still Stands Out
In a cocktail world often crowded with complex concoctions, the Whiskey Smash is proof that simplicity, when balanced perfectly, creates magic.
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Mint provides an herbaceous freshness.
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Lemon adds zesty brightness.
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Simple syrup softens tart edges.
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Whiskey grounds the drink with warmth and depth.
The result? A drink that’s crisp, citrusy, refreshing, and still spirit-forward. Think of it as the Mint Julep’s approachable sibling — less formal, more playful, and perfect for hot Aussie afternoons.
A Brief History – Jerry Thomas & the “Smash” Family
The Whiskey Smash belongs to a larger family of cocktails known as “smashes” — essentially sours with muddled fruit and herbs, designed to be seasonal and refreshing.
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First written recipe: Jerry Thomas’s Bartender’s Guide (1887 edition).
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Purpose: A “cooling drink” for warm weather, often consumed with plenty of crushed ice.
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Legacy: While many smashes faded, the Whiskey Smash endured, partly because whiskey remained America’s spirit of choice.
Today, it’s a bridge between whiskey cocktails and citrus-driven refreshers.
Whiskey Smash Recipe (Australian Measurements)
Ingredients:
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60 mL whiskey (bourbon is classic; Aussie whiskies like Starward Two-Fold work beautifully)
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30 mL fresh lemon juice (never bottled)
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15 mL simple syrup (1:1 sugar & water)
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6–8 fresh mint leaves
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Crushed ice
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Garnish: mint sprig + lemon wheel
Method:
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Muddle lightly: Press mint in a shaker to release oils (don’t shred it).
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Add liquids: Whiskey, lemon, syrup.
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Shake: Fill shaker with ice and shake 10–12 seconds.
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Strain: Double strain into a chilled rocks glass packed with crushed ice.
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Garnish: Add mint sprig (slap it first for aroma) and a lemon wheel.
💡 RSA Note: Around 1.5 standard drinks per serve.
Flavour Science – Why It Works
The Whiskey Smash is a lesson in balance:
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Whiskey: rich base note, often caramel and vanilla.
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Lemon: brightens and cuts through richness.
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Syrup: rounds sharp acidity, preventing harshness.
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Mint: provides high herbal aromatics that lift the drink.
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Ice: crushed format dilutes gently, keeping the drink lively instead of heavy.
Every sip is layered: citrus first, then sweetness, then whiskey warmth, finishing cool and minty.
Pro Tips from Behind the Bar
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Mint freshness is non-negotiable: Never use wilted leaves.
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Ice is part of the recipe: Without crushed ice, you lose texture. DIY by smashing cubes in a tea towel.
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Double strain always: Keeps “mint confetti” out of the drink.
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Pre-chill glassware: Extends freshness and slows dilution.
Modern Twists on the Whiskey Smash
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Aussie Smash → Starward whiskey, eucalyptus honey syrup, native mint.
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Spiced Smash → Add cinnamon syrup + a dash of Australian bitters.
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Berry Smash → Muddle strawberries or blueberries with the mint.
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Smoky Smash → Use peated Scotch instead of bourbon for a campfire finish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Over-muddling → makes mint bitter.
❌ Bottled lemon juice → flat, artificial flavour.
❌ Skipping crushed ice → wrong texture, no cooling melt.
❌ Forgetting balance → too much syrup or lemon throws it off.
Troubleshooting Your Smash
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Too sweet? Add 10 mL more lemon juice.
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Too tart? Add 5 mL more syrup.
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Too strong? Add a splash of soda water.
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Not cold enough? Shake longer with fresh ice and pre-chill your glass.
Food Pairings
The Smash is bright and versatile, pairing with:
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BBQ meats → pulled pork, brisket, or ribs.
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Seafood → prawns, salmon, grilled calamari.
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Cheese boards → creamy brie or sharp cheddar.
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Light desserts → lemon tart, panna cotta, or pavlova.
FAQs
Is the Whiskey Smash the same as a Mint Julep?
No — the Julep has whiskey, mint, and sugar. The Smash adds citrus, making it fresher and brighter.
What whiskey works best?
Bourbon is classic, but rye gives spice, and Australian whiskies add local character.
Can I make it in a jug?
Yes. Pre-mix whiskey, lemon, syrup. Add mint + ice only per serve to keep it fresh.
Thanks for joining us behind the bar!
The bartending community is a vibrant and supportive one, and I’m excited to build that community here on Shake, Sip, Serve. I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences in the comments below. What are you shaking up these days? What topics would you like to see covered in future posts? Let’s connect and continue the conversation!
Liquor & Gaming NSW: This website provides information on liquor licensing, responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training, and regulations for serving alcohol in NSW. It’s essential for anyone working in the hospitality industry in NSW. You can find it here: Liquor & Gaming NSW