This cocktail is summer in a glass. The Southland is a refreshing blend of whiskey, peach liqueur, lemon juice, and mint-sweet, tangy, and just the right amount of bold. It’s the kind of drink that feels both familiar and a little fancy, perfect for warm evenings on the porch or backyard get-togethers. I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I learned while perfecting it: fresh mint makes all the difference, so don’t skip it.
Southland
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Old Fashioned glass or Highball
Equipment: Jigger, muddler, bar spoon
Ingredients
– 60 ml (2 oz) whiskey – bourbon works beautifully
– 15 ml (0.5 oz) simple syrup – or honey syrup for a natural twist
– 22 ml (0.75 oz) fresh lemon juice – about half a lemon
– 15 ml (0.5 oz) peach liqueur – such as DeKuyper or Giffard
– A small handful of fresh mint leaves – plus extra for garnish
– Ice cubes – enough to fill your glass
Method
- In your glass, gently muddle the mint leaves with the simple syrup. You’re not trying to shred them-just press to release the oils. This gives the drink its fresh, herbaceous base.
- Pour in the whiskey and peach liqueur. Add a generous amount of ice-enough to chill everything without watering it down too fast.
- Top it off with the lemon juice and give it a slow stir to blend everything nicely.
- Garnish with a mint sprig or a twist of lemon peel. That little burst of aroma as you sip really elevates the experience.
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh lemon juice-it brightens up the drink way more than bottled ever could.
– Don’t over-muddle the mint. Crushing it too hard can make it taste bitter.
– Want it a bit sweeter? Add a splash more peach liqueur or simple syrup.
– Batching for a party? Multiply the ingredients by the number of servings. Mix everything but the mint ahead of time and muddle fresh mint into each glass when serving.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can mix the whiskey, lemon juice, peach liqueur, and syrup a few hours ahead and store it in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, just muddle fresh mint in each glass and pour over ice. Leftovers (if there are any!) can be stored in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 2 days, but the flavor is best fresh.
Serving Suggestions
This drink is a total charmer alongside:
– Smoky BBQ ribs – the citrus cuts through the richness
– A crisp garden salad – especially with a lemon vinaigrette
– Pecan pie – the nutty sweetness pairs like a dream
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-dinner cocktails-this one never fails to impress guests. It’s simple, but the flavors feel special.
Variations
Southern Belle
– Add a splash of grenadine at the end for a subtle pomegranate twist and a pretty blush tone.
Georgia Sunset
– Swap in 30 ml (1 oz) fresh orange juice and a dash of bitters. Garnish with an orange slice.
Mint Julep Southland
– Use crushed ice and a dusting of powdered sugar for a julep-style version. Add extra mint for a cooler, more intense herbal note.
Non-Alcoholic Version
– Skip the whiskey and peach liqueur. Use peach nectar or juice and top with ginger ale. Still refreshing, still packed with flavor.
Ingredient Swaps
– No peach liqueur? Try apricot brandy or a splash of peach nectar.
– No simple syrup? Stir equal parts sugar and warm water until dissolved, or use agave syrup.
– Prefer a different herb? Basil or rosemary can give it a fun twist-just use less, as they’re stronger than mint.
Common Pitfalls
– Over-muddling the mint: It can turn bitter fast.
– Using old lemon juice: It tastes flat and won’t bring that zing.
– Not measuring: The balance of sweet, sour, and strong is key-eyeballing can throw it off.
Why It Works
This cocktail hits all the right notes: the whiskey brings warmth, the lemon brightens things up, and the peach liqueur smooths it out with a fruity layer. The mint ties it all together with a refreshing lift. It’s a great example of balancing bold and light flavors in one glass.
Q&A
When’s the best time to enjoy a Southland?
Summer evenings are ideal, but honestly, it’s a great year-round sipper.
Can I make it in a pitcher?
Yes! Just leave out the mint until serving time to keep it fresh.
Don’t like whiskey?
Try bourbon for a smoother profile, or even rye if you want a spicier kick.
How do I take it up a notch?
Use a smoked whiskey or serve it over a large clear ice cube with a mint bouquet.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
You can, but only in a pinch. Fresh really makes a difference in flavor.
Pair It With
Looking for a full menu? Try it with:
– Grilled corn with chili-lime butter
– Southern fried chicken
– Peach cobbler for dessert
Whether you’re new to cocktails or just looking for something fresh and easy, the Southland is one of those drinks that feels like a treat without being fussy. It’s warm, zesty, and just sweet enough to keep you coming back for another sip.
