Summer-ripe peaches, fresh basil, and the gentle, fragrant bite of Earl Grey tea come together beautifully in this bourbon-based cocktail.
The Earl Grey Peach Smash is the perfect balance of sweet, herbal, and citrusy with just enough tannin from the tea to give it depth.
While you can skip the Earl Grey if you prefer, that subtle black tea bitterness is exactly what makes this drink truly memorable.
Whether you’re lounging on the porch in July or looking for a sophisticated early autumn sipper, this cocktail delivers a refreshing hit of flavor in every sip.
Mocktail Version
Swap the bourbon for a strong-brewed Earl Grey tea (chilled) or a black tea and peach juice blend.
Keep the muddled peach and basil, add lemon juice, and use the same amount of syrup for sweetness.
Shake with ice, strain over crushed ice, and garnish the same way for a zero-proof version that’s just as refreshing.
Twist Ideas
- Herbal Upgrade: Replace basil with fresh mint or lemon balm for a different herbal profile.
- Peach & Vanilla: Add a splash of vanilla syrup for a peach cobbler-inspired flavor.
- Sparkling Finish: Top with soda water or sparkling wine for a lighter, effervescent take.
- Whiskey Swap: Try rye whiskey instead of bourbon for a spicier finish.
Earl Grey Peach Smash Recipe
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Bourbon
- 0.5 oz Earl Grey syrup (or use simple syrup with a splash of black tea if you’re not a fan of Earl Grey)
- 0.5 oz lemon juice
- 1–2 ripe peach slices (or 1 oz peach purée)
- 3 large basil leaves (or 6–8 small basil leaves)
Instructions
- In a shaker, muddle the peach slices and basil leaves until the fruit is broken down and the basil is fragrant.
- Add bourbon, syrup, and lemon juice.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice.
- Garnish with a basil sprig or a fresh peach slice.
