Brandy Smash

A variation on the classic Whiskey Smash.

The original and most popular variant of the smash throughout its heyday was the Brandy Smash, traditionally a mixture of spirit, water, sugar and mint, built over crushed ice. This recipe, however, borrows a tip from bartender Dale DeGroff, who muddled lemon into his Whiskey Smash, further defining the category.

Ingredients

Serving: 1

  • 1 1/2 ounces cognac, preferably Louis Royer Force 53 VSOP
  • 1 1/2 ounces cognac, preferably Louis Royer Force 53 VSOP
  • 2 dashes simple syrup (1:1, sugar:water)
  • 2 dashes simple syrup (1:1, sugar:water)
  • 2 dashes orange bitters
  • 2 dashes orange bitters
  • 2 wheels lemon
  • 2 wheels lemon
  • 1 sprig mint
  • 1 sprig mint

Garnish: mint sprig, lemon wheel

Directions
  1. In a rocks class, gently muddle mint with simple syrup and bitters to release the oils.
  2. Add the lemon wheels and muddle to release juice.
  3. To the rocks glass, add in crushed ice or small ice cubes and pour the cognac overtop.
  4. Swizzle gently to mix.
  5. Garnish with a mint sprig and lemon wheel.