26 June 2009

Benito vs. the Cocktail: Whiskey Peach Smash

Three factors came into confluence for this post: 1) I had a new set of stemless cocktail glasses; 2) I had fresh peaches from local producers at Jones Orchard; and 3) I wanted to try out a recipe from my autographed copy of Imbibe! by David Wondrich, a gift from The Squirrels.

Combine the above with a well-stocked bar, and it was high time for the Whiskey Peach Smash.

There are many variations on this recipe, all attributed to the same mixologist: Dale DeGroff. I used the one in the book, and was quite happy with it. It's tart, refreshing, and lightly sweet, but some may want to add some sugar or simple syrup. Consider it a Georgia twist on the classic Mint Julep.

I will also note that after muddling the ripe peaches it's almost impossible to strain this drink, so be prepared to crack apart your cocktail shaker and pour it old school.

Whiskey Peach Smash
makes one cocktail

5 mint leaves
2 peach slices
½ lemon, quartered
1 oz. Orange Curaçao
2 oz. Bourbon
1 mint sprig + 1 slice peach reserved for garnish

Muddle together everything except for the Bourbon and garnish. Add ice and Bourbon, shake, and strain into the glass of your choice. Garnish with the peach slice and sprig of fresh mint.

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If you're going to be at the upcoming Tales of the Cocktail convention in New Orleans, keep an eye out for buttons with my "Cocktail Geek" design. With my full support and permission, the folks at Fee Brothers printed up a bunch of the buttons for handing out at the conference. If you get one, or see one, let me know!

5 comments:

Samantha Dugan said...

Benito,
Wicked cool logo on the pin there, you are amazingly generous with your talents...giving me my blog logo and all!

On the drink, could you use Irish Whiskey in place of the Bourbon?

Benito said...

Samantha,

If you use Irish whiskey you're going to need to add more sugar to replace the natural sweetness of Bourbon. I don't know how the flavors would work out, but there's no harm in trying. Dark rum might be a better substitute.

I was a graphic designer for 8 years, now it's just an occasional hobby. Some stuff I give away, other stuff I copyright like my pastis infographic.

Cheers,
Benito

Samantha Dugan said...

That was what I figured...no can do the Bourbon amigo, much to my son and one of my closest friends horror.

Grace Rodich said...

I already have one of those buttons. Now I need it in a magnet for the party fridge. Nice work on the buttons Ben. They look awesome.

Benito said...

Thanks Grace, and the piece of flair looks great on you!