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Drinks
Maple Bourbon Smash
A seasonal twist on the whiskey smash — high-rye bourbon, dark maple syrup, fresh lemon, and muddled thyme (or mint). The two-stage chill method (stir then shake) emulsifies the herbs for integrated flavor. Bright, herbal, and perfectly balanced for fall.
Prep5 minutes
Cook0 minutes
Serves1 cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 oz high-rye bourbon (Four Roses Single Barrel, Woodford Reserve, or Old Grand-Dad Bonded)
- 3/4 oz Grade A Dark maple syrup
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- 4-5 fresh thyme sprigs (or mint leaves)
- 1 orange twist for garnish
- Large clear ice cube
Instructions
- 1. Muddle thyme gently in a shaker — 3 bruises with a muddler, stems intact. Let rest 45 seconds.
- 2. Stage 1 (Stir): Add bourbon, maple syrup, and lemon juice to mixing glass with ice. Stir 22 seconds.
- 3. Stage 2 (Shake): Add muddled thyme and dry shake (no ice) 8 seconds. Add fresh ice and shake hard 10 seconds.
- 4. Double-strain through fine mesh into rocks glass over a single large ice cube.
- 5. Express orange twist over surface (don't drop in) to deposit citrus oils. Garnish with a thyme sprig.
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