A Brandy Smash is a refreshing brandy cocktail built on muddled fresh mint and sugar, topped with carbonated water for bright, herbaceous flavor. It's a lighter, sparkling take on brandy-forward sours.
Recipe Source
Visit Mr. Boston DrinksFrom Mr. Boston Drinks · by Old Mr. Boston De Luxe Official Bartender's Guide
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Muddle 1 Lump of Sugar with 1 oz.
Carbonated Water and 4 Sprigs of Green Mint.
Boston California Brandy, then a cube of ice.
Stir and decorate with a slice of Orange and a cherry.
Twist lemon peel on top.
Use Old Fashioned cocktail glass.
This is a fresh cocktail best served immediately after preparation; not suitable for advance storage.
cocktail muddler · jigger or measuring cup
Fresh mint is essential to the drink's character. If unavailable, dried mint won't deliver the same aromatic quality, so consider a different brandy cocktail instead.
Smooth California brandy or any approachable VS brandy works well. Avoid high-proof or heavily oaked varieties that would overpower the mint.
Either works; club soda (carbonated water with added minerals) adds slight salinity, while plain sparkling water keeps the drink lighter. Choose based on preference.
Gently press the mint against the sugar with a muddler using light downward motions—avoid twisting or aggressive grinding, which releases bitter chlorophyll.
Muddle mint and sugar in advance if desired, but add brandy and carbonated water only when serving to preserve carbonation and mint freshness.
