Cherry and Basil Old Fashioned Smash

Fresh cherries and basil give this classic cocktail a summer vibe. Bright, refreshing and full of flavor this Cherry and Basil Old Fashioned Smash is a patio drink for those warm summer evenings.

Just like the name says, to make this drink you smash cherries and basil and combine it with a traditional old fashioned. Beginning in mid May through June cherries are in season. We love cherries and use them in many recipes, but this may be my favorite.

We are not huge whiskey drinkers, but there are certain times and drinks where we love the addition of whiskeys. Hint egg nog comes to mind. One of our favorites is Sazerac rye whiskey. It works perfectly with basil and cherries to deliver a fresh and tasty summer cocktail.

What’s a smash

Smashes use fruit that are in season and fresh herbs. Mint is the most common, but basil is a close second and when we have a basil plant we are always looking for ways to use it. To make a really good smash, you want to use fruit that is in season, pick your favorite and try it out. The addition of basil just takes it to the next level. Like the name says a “smash” is when you smash fruit or more commonly described in the cocktail world as “muddled”. If you want to take your cocktail mixing skills to another level, get a muddler and begin to experiment with smash cocktails.

Cherry and Basil Old Fashioned Ingredients

Ingredients

• 5 each Fresh cherries pitted
• 5 leaves basil
• 3 oz bourbon or rye
• 2 dashes bitters
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 slice orange for garnish

Instructions

• Pit the cherries.
• Add cherries, basil, bitters and sugar to a cocktail shaker.
• Using a muddler mash the cherries and basil until broken up.
• Add Bourbon and ice. 
• Shake vigorously until cold.
• Pour into an old fashioned glass with ice, garnish with orange slice.
• Serve and enjoy!

For other great drinks try:

Basil Gimlet

Classic Mint Julep

Classic Mojito Cocktail

Southside Cocktail

The Classic Daiquiri