Review: Social Hour Cocktails RTD Bourbon Smash — a $28/4-pack expression that merits close attention.
Nose
All subtlety is lost on first taste. The presence of bourbon is overtaken by a sugary, almost grainy mouthfeel. The green tea becomes more like a sweetened iced tea, and the vibrant lemon aroma is not present on the palate. While the cocktail presents itself well with strong notes of lemon and whiskey on the nose, the drink itself has elements of green tea but the bourbon is quickly lost, replaced by a cloying sweetness, like an iced tea with too much raw sugar added. I found the cocktail to be largely undrinkable; more acidity would be welcomed, and I add that myself, as well as extra bourbon, but in my opinion, RTD cocktails are best when fully contained and balanced in the can.
Palate
Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by Whiskeyful or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.
Verdict
Review: Social Hour Cocktails RTD Bourbon Smash presents a competent offering that warrants consideration for those exploring the category.