Strawberry Basil Smash

One classic that’s more recent goes back a couple decades to a bar in Hamburg, Germany, although it uses gin as a primary ingredient. In this variation, strawberries and fresh basil are smashed together until fragrant in this bourbon-based cocktail make it perfect for those hot summer days just around the corner.

• ¼ c. fresh strawberries, cut into chunks
• 5 leaves fresh basil
• 1 tbsp. lemon juice
• 2 tsp. simple syrup
• 3 oz. bourbon
• ½ cup ice, or as needed
• 3 oz. sparkling water, or as needed

Muddle strawberries, basil, lemon juice, and simple syrup together in a cocktail glass until smashed together and fragrant. Add bourbon and ice, then stir to combine. Top with sparkling water. Add a strawberry and a couple of basil leaves for garnish.