Bourbon Branca Smash

Be the first to rate

A photo of the Bourbon Branca Smash cocktail containing Savage & Cooke Cask Finished Bourbon, Fernet-Branca Amaro Liqueur, Freshly squeezed lemon juice, Giffard Sugar Cane Syrup (Sirop Sucre de Canne) in a Old-Fashioned.

Other Ingredients

  • 0.75 fl oz Freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 0.40 fl oz Giffard Sugar Cane Syrup (Sirop Sucre de Canne)

Directions

  • Add all ingredients to cocktail shaker
  • Fill shaker with ice
  • Shake vigorously
  • Fill old-fashioned glass with crushed ice
  • Strain mixture into glass over crushed ice
  • Garnish with mint sprigs

Cocktail Description

This isn't your grandma's mint julep—the Bourbon Branca Smash brings a grown-up edge to the classic smash format with a bold herbal punch from Fernet-Branca.

The Savage & Cooke bourbon provides a rich, caramel-forward base that gets brilliantly interrupted by the intensely bitter, minty, and medicinal notes of Fernet-Branca, while fresh lemon juice and cane syrup balance everything with bright acidity and gentle sweetness. Think of it as a refreshing sipper with a backbone—cooling and herbaceous up front, then warming and complex as the bourbon settles in. It's surprisingly easy to make: just shake everything together, strain over crushed ice, and top with fresh mint. This cocktail shines on warm afternoons when you want something refreshing but substantial, or as a palate-cleansing nightcap after a heavy meal. The herbal intensity pairs beautifully with grilled meats, rich barbecue, or even dark chocolate desserts that can stand up to the Fernet's assertive character. It's a drink that commands attention and rewards adventurous palates.

Shop Ingredients

Leave a Comment