Peach-Ginger Bourbon Smashes

Sometimes I like to play bartender, and when I’m behind the bar bourbon is my poison of choice.

In the peak heat of summer I usually opt for something light and ultra-refreshing like these Cucumber Refreshers, but I wanted to create something just as fresh with bourbon.

To take these to the next level I make a quick simple syrup infused with fresh ginger. It’s super quick, and keeps well in the fridge for future cocktail endeavours, like impromptu old fashioneds…

After muddling the peaches (that’s the ‘smashing’ part), you add the simple syrup and bourbon over crushed ice, then top the whole thing of with soda. it’s basically a boozed’ up peach-ginger soda!

If you have some extra peaches on hand (maybe they’re slightly bruised) this is a great way to use them up. Shake up a batch for you’re next cocktail hour and have everyone feeling just peachy in no time ;)

To make 1 cocktail

1/2 large peach, muddled or blended

1.5 oz bourbon (I like Bulleit)

.5 oz simple syrup

soda water, to top

For the Ginger Simple Syrup:

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup water

1 inch piece of ginger, thinly sliced

Make the simple syrup. In a small saucepan set over medium-high heat, combine the sugar, water, and sliced ginger. Heat, stirring occasionally, until all of sugar is dissolved. Pour syrup, along with ginger slices into a heat-safe container of glass jar with a lid, and place in the fridge to cool.
Once simple syrup is cool, remove the sliced ginger and make cocktails. Remove pit from peaches and muddle in a glass until peaches reach a puréed texture. Alternatively, blitz in a blender for a smoother consistency. Combine peaches, bourbon, and simple syrup in a glass filled with crushed ice. Top with soda water and stir to combine. Top with a sprig of mint, if using, and enjoy!