Autumn Bourbon Smash
Bourbon
The Autumn Bourbon Smash is a cozy, aromatic cocktail that captures the essence of fall in a glass. Smooth bourbon and crisp apple cider form the base, while fresh lemon juice brightens the mix and fig-rosemary simple syrup adds layered sweetness with herbal depth. The syrup — infused with honey, figs, rosemary, and cinnamon — brings a warm, spiced complexity that perfectly complements the bourbon’s richness. Garnished with rosemary, a cinnamon stick, and a slice of fig or apple, it’s a beautifully balanced drink that feels both rustic and refined — ideal for slow evenings, sweater weather, and seasonal gatherings alike.
Ingredients
- 3 oz bourbon whiskey, chilled
- 3 oz apple cider chilled
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp. fig-rosemary simple syrup
- 1/4 cup club soda (optional)
- For Garnish
- cinnamon sticks
- rosemary sprigs
- fig or apple slices
- For the Fig-Rosemary Simple Syrup
- 1 cup honey
- 3/4 cup water
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
Preparation
- For the Fig-Rosemary Simple Syrup:
- In a small saucepan, add all the ingredients for the syrup and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer a minute while stirring until the honey is combined.
- Turn the heat off and let steep for about 30-45 minutes. Then strain into a jar and set aside to cool. Once cooled, cover and store in the refrigerator. It will keep in the refrigerator for about a month.
- For the cocktail:
- Add the bourbon, apple cider, lemon juice and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker or glass measuring cup with a little ice. Stir well to combine.
- Taste for sweetness, then pour into two glasses filled with ice. Top with an ounce or two of club soda if desired.
- Garnish with a rosemary sprig, cinnamon stick and fig or apple slice.
