Mastering the Cherry Whiskey Smash: Your Ultimate Summer Cocktail Guide

Elevate your home bar skills and delight your guests with the sensational Cherry Whiskey Smash. This vibrant cocktail is a harmonious fusion of robust whiskey, the sweet-tart essence of fresh cherries, invigorating mint, and bright lemon. It’s the quintessential drink for warm summer evenings, intimate gatherings, or simply unwinding after a long day. Its fresh, fruity profile perfectly balances the deep, complex notes of whiskey, making it an undeniable favorite for everyone – not just the ladies, but truly anyone who appreciates a well-crafted drink!

Disclosure: This post was sponsored by Laws Whiskey House. As always, all opinions are my own. This is an updated version of the original post published on May 5, 2017.

The Allure of the Cherry Whiskey Smash

For me, whiskey isn’t just a spirit; it’s a personality, a steadfast companion in the world of drinks. Perhaps it’s the nostalgic comfort of Irish coffees from my youth, or maybe it’s the sheer depth and diversity of its flavors – from smoky to sweet, spicy to smooth – that truly captivate my senses. Whatever the reason, when happy hour beckons, whiskey is invariably my first choice.

While I hold a deep appreciation for the classic bourbon smash, my heart leans towards the multifaceted character of whiskey. This led me to develop a whiskey smash that truly celebrates the spirit, offering a refreshing twist on a beloved formula. My journey to perfect this recipe began during a memorable whiskey and beer exploration in Denver, which included a pivotal stop at Laws Whiskey House, a local distillery I hold in high regard.

It was there that I was profoundly impressed by their Secale Straight Rye whiskey. Its distinctive notes and smooth finish immediately inspired me to create a summer whiskey drink that I knew I had to share with all of you. The result is this Cherry Whiskey Smash, a cocktail designed to highlight the unique qualities of rye while embracing the vibrant flavors of the season.

The Seasonal Delight of Cherries in Cocktails

Cherries are one of those ingredients that ignite a special anticipation each year, much like the comforting cranberries of winter or the diverse pumpkins and squashes of autumn. These glistening, jewel-toned fruits are incredibly versatile, perfect for everything from baking luscious pies to simply enjoying as a fresh snack straight from the bag. But for me, their true calling often lies in the art of cocktail creation.

The bright, fresh juice of cherries beautifully complements a variety of spirits. However, I firmly believe that their quintessential partner, their true soulmate, is and always will be, whiskey. The slight sweetness and rich depth of whiskey provide an ideal canvas for the tart, fruity explosion of cherries.

This particular Cherry Whiskey Smash offers a refreshingly balanced blend where the natural sweetness and tang of fresh cherries intertwine with the zesty brightness of lemon and the cool, aromatic kick of mint. These elements are carefully chosen to enhance the slightly sweet and distinctively rich flavors of Laws Secale Straight Rye whiskey. While this cocktail is delightfully simple to prepare, its truly addictive quality stems from the exceptional freshness of its ingredients. Using peak-season produce makes an immense difference, transforming a good drink into an unforgettable one.

If Laws Secale Straight Rye isn’t readily available, don’t fret! Feel free to substitute it with your favorite rye whiskey. For those who prefer a slightly sweeter profile, a good quality bourbon makes an excellent alternative, lending a different but equally delicious character to the smash.

Key Ingredients for Your Cherry Whiskey Smash

Crafting a truly exceptional Cherry Whiskey Smash begins with selecting the finest ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors:

• Simple Syrup: This fundamental cocktail sweetener is incredibly easy to make at home, offering a pure sweetness without affecting the flavor profile. Just combine equal parts granulated sugar and water in a saucepan, bring it to a gentle boil, and stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from heat, allow it to cool completely, and then store it in a sealed container in your refrigerator for up to several weeks. I often prepare larger batches, like 2 cups of sugar with 2 cups of water, to ensure I always have some on hand for spontaneous cocktail sessions.
• Cherry Juice: For this recipe, aim for 100% tart cherry juice. Its vibrant acidity and concentrated cherry flavor will provide the perfect counterbalance to the whiskey’s richness. Look for it in the juice aisle of your local grocery store. Avoid cherry-flavored syrups or juices with added sugars, as these can overpower the natural fruit and unbalance the drink.
• Cherries: Fresh, ripe cherries are highly recommended for their superior flavor and texture. Be sure to pit them before muddling to avoid any unpleasant bitterness or hard pieces. If fresh cherries are out of season or unavailable, frozen cherries can be used as a convenient substitute. Just remember to thaw them thoroughly and drain any excess liquid before incorporating them into your cocktail to prevent dilution and maintain the desired consistency.
• Mint: Fresh mint is absolutely crucial for the aromatic lift and refreshing finish of a smash. The act of muddling releases its essential oils, infusing the drink with its bright, cool essence. Don’t be shy with the mint; a little extra sprig for garnish not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the overall sensory experience with its delightful fragrance.
• Lemon: Each cocktail benefits from a single, generously sized lemon wedge. The fresh citrus juice provides a vital tartness that cuts through the sweetness of the cherries and the richness of the whiskey, bringing all the flavors into sharp focus. Don’t use bottled lemon juice; fresh is key for that vibrant, zesty punch.
• Whiskey: The heart of this cocktail! I highly recommend opting for your favorite rye whiskey. Rye whiskey typically offers a spicier, drier profile compared to bourbon, which wonderfully complements the fruit. Laws Secale Straight Rye is an excellent choice if you can find it, but any high-quality rye you enjoy sipping on its own will shine here. If you prefer a slightly sweeter drink or simply love bourbon, feel free to use your preferred bourbon instead (see FAQ for more details).

Essential Tools for Crafting the Perfect Smash

To successfully create a Cherry Whiskey Smash that rivals those found in your favorite bar, a few basic bar tools are indispensable. These items will ensure you can properly extract flavors and combine your ingredients:

• Cocktail Shaker: A sturdy Boston cocktail shaker is a must-have. Its two-piece design (a metal tin and a mixing glass) allows for excellent temperature control and vigorous shaking without leaks, ensuring your drink is perfectly chilled and well-integrated.
• Muddler: An extra-long cocktail muddler is ideal for gently pressing the fruits, herbs, and citrus to release their juices and aromatic oils. Look for one with a flat, textured end to maximize flavor extraction without pulverizing the ingredients too much.
• Cocktail Jigger: Precision is key in cocktail making. A double jigger, with measurements on both ends, allows you to accurately measure your spirits and other liquid ingredients, ensuring a consistent and perfectly balanced drink every time.
• Bar Spoon: While not strictly for this recipe, a long bar spoon is always a handy tool for stirring ingredients before shaking, layering drinks, or simply tasting.

If you’re looking to upgrade your glassware and present your Cherry Whiskey Smash in style, I highly recommend investing in a set of quality old fashioned glasses. Their wide mouth and sturdy base are perfect for holding ice and allow the aroma of the cocktail to truly shine.

Here’s How to Make a Cherry Whiskey Smash

Creating this delicious Cherry Whiskey Smash is a straightforward process, breaking down into three key steps: muddling, shaking, and straining. Follow these simple instructions for a perfect cocktail every time.

Muddle the Flavors

Begin by adding your simple syrup, fresh cherry juice, pitted fresh cherries, mint leaves, and a lemon wedge to the bottom of an empty cocktail shaker. Using your muddler, gently but firmly press and twist the ingredients. The goal is to break down the lemon wedge and cherries to release their juices and oils, and to bruise the mint leaves just enough to extract their aromatic essence without tearing them too much (over-muddling mint can release bitter notes). Continue muddling for about 15-20 seconds until the lemon wedge is visibly broken down and the fragrant aromas fill the shaker.

Shake to Perfection

Once your base is muddled, pour in your preferred whiskey (rye or bourbon). Fill the rest of the shaker with fresh ice cubes. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This step is crucial for chilling the cocktail thoroughly and properly mixing all the ingredients. You should feel the shaker get noticeably cold in your hands. A quick stir with a bar spoon before shaking can also help combine ingredients initially.

Strain and Serve

Prepare your serving glass: fill a rocks glass or a double old fashioned glass generously with fresh ice. Remove the lid from your shaker and, using a hawthorne strainer (or the built-in strainer if your shaker has one), strain the cocktail directly into your ice-filled glass. This ensures that any small fruit pieces or mint leaves don’t end up in your finished drink, providing a smooth and enjoyable sip. For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, garnish your Cherry Whiskey Smash with a few fresh cherries and a sprig or two of mint. The aroma from the mint garnish will enhance the drinking experience.

More tasty cherry cocktails to try: Cherry Bourbon Sour | Cherry Rosé Mimosa | Vodka Cherry Limeade | Tart Cherry Fizz | Cherry Amaretto Sour

Can I Use Bourbon Instead of Rye Whiskey?

Absolutely! If your preference leans towards bourbon, you can certainly substitute it for rye whiskey in this Cherry Whiskey Smash recipe. It’s important to note, however, that the cocktail was originally developed with rye in mind, which typically offers a spicier, drier, and sometimes fruitier profile. When you use bourbon, you’ll find the drink will be a touch on the sweeter side, as bourbon generally has a rounder, sweeter character with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. This can still be incredibly delicious, offering a slightly different, perhaps more mellow, flavor experience that many will appreciate. Feel free to adjust the amount of simple syrup slightly if you find the bourbon version too sweet for your taste.

Can I Use Frozen Cherries?

Yes, you can definitely use frozen cherries when fresh ones are not in season or available. Frozen fruit is a fantastic alternative for cocktails. The key step is to ensure you thaw the frozen cherries completely before using them. Once thawed, it’s also a good idea to drain any excess liquid that has accumulated. This prevents the melted ice from diluting your cocktail, which can weaken the flavor. Thawed frozen cherries will muddle just as effectively as fresh ones, releasing their vibrant juice and flavor into your smash. You might find them slightly softer, making muddling even easier!

What to Serve with a Cherry Whiskey Smash

The Cherry Whiskey Smash, with its robust yet refreshing character, pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, especially those that shine during the summer months and backyard gatherings. When I think of summertime cocktails, my mind immediately goes to the grill and all things BBQ!

Here are some of my top recommendations for dinner pairings:

• Instant Pot Pulled Pork: To save time in the kitchen and maximize your enjoyment, whip up some Instant Pot Pulled Pork. Its smoky, savory notes are a dream with the sweet-tart smash. Serve it in sandwiches, tacos, or my personal favorite, BBQ pulled pork sliders with apple coleslaw, for a perfect match.
• Spicy Salsa Verde Chorizo Pizza: Ready to fire up the grill? This spicy salsa verde chorizo pizza offers a bold flavor profile that stands up well to the whiskey, while the salsa verde’s tang complements the cherry.
• French Onion Burger: For a more traditional grilled burger with a gourmet twist, try this savory french onion burger. The caramelized onions and rich beef will be wonderfully balanced by the crisp freshness of the smash.

Need more party bites and appetizers for a crowd? These favorites are sure to be a hit alongside your Cherry Whiskey Smash:

• Flavorful Wings: Who doesn’t love a good wing? Whether you prefer the sweet heat of hot honey whiskey wings or the savory crunch of dry rub wings, they’re always a winner at my backyard BBQs and perfectly complement the whiskey notes in the drink.
• Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke Goat Cheese Dip: For a rich and creamy dip that’s a proven crowd-pleaser, check out this spinach and artichoke goat cheese dip. Its tanginess and creamy texture provide a wonderful contrast to the cocktail.

If you’re seeking even more culinary inspiration for your next outdoor gathering, I’ve curated a collection of our favorite backyard BBQ dishes that are sure to impress.

Need some more inspiration for cocktail hour? Check out my cocktails recipe page!

Finally, if you make this cherry whiskey smash recipe, please be sure to give it a rating or leave a comment! I absolutely love hearing when you recreate my recipes, and I genuinely take the time to respond to every single comment. Feel free to drop any questions you might have below as well!

Oh, and be sure to tag me on Instagram if you share a photo of your cocktail! Seeing these recipes come to life in your homes is truly my favorite part of this job – I love looking through all those wonderful photos. It really means the world to me!