Blackberry Old Fashioned 🍇🥃
“A rich, fruity twist on a timeless classic—smooth bourbon meets bold blackberry in every sip.”
The Blackberry Old Fashioned is a delicious and inventive spin on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail. By introducing the bright, juicy flavor of fresh blackberries and a touch of sweetness, this version delivers a deeper, more vibrant experience while staying true to the bold and rich qualities of the original drink. The bitters and bourbon remain at the heart of this cocktail, while the muddled blackberries bring a fresh, fruity twist. If you’re a fan of classic cocktails but are looking to add something new to your repertoire, this Blackberry Old Fashioned is an exciting choice.
Why You’ll Love This Blackberry Old Fashioned
A classic Old Fashioned is known for its simplicity—bourbon, bitters, sugar, and a twist of citrus. The Blackberry Old Fashioned elevates that simplicity with the addition of fresh blackberries, which bring a burst of fruity flavor that perfectly complements the smoothness of the bourbon. The result is a drink that’s rich, refreshing, and just sweet enough. The balance of bitterness and fruitiness is ideal for cocktail lovers who enjoy both traditional and innovative flavors. Whether you’re at home or at a bar, this drink is sure to impress anyone who loves bourbon and cocktails with a twist.
Ingredients for Blackberry Old Fashioned:
2 oz bourbon 🥃
Bourbon serves as the base of the drink, providing its signature smooth and slightly smoky flavor. A good-quality bourbon is key to ensuring the drink is rich and satisfying.
1/2 oz simple syrup 🍯
The simple syrup adds a touch of sweetness to the cocktail without overpowering it. It works in harmony with the bitterness of the Angostura bitters and the tartness of the blackberries.
4–5 fresh blackberries 🍇
Fresh blackberries provide a bold, sweet, and slightly tart flavor that brightens the drink and adds depth. When muddled, they release their juices, infusing the bourbon with their fruity essence.
2 dashes Angostura bitters 🧪
Bitters are a key ingredient in the Old Fashioned, adding a layer of complexity and balancing the sweetness. The aromatic flavor of Angostura bitters complements the blackberries and bourbon beautifully.
Orange peel for garnish 🍊
The orange peel adds a citrusy aroma and a touch of zest to the drink. Expressing the peel over the glass and then adding it as a garnish infuses the cocktail with a subtle, fresh citrus note that enhances the overall flavor.
Ice 🧊
Ice is essential for chilling the drink and slightly diluting it, making it more refreshing and mellowing the strong flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Muddle the Blackberries:
Begin by placing the fresh blackberries in a rocks glass. Add the simple syrup and bitters. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to crush the blackberries gently, releasing their juices and blending the flavors with the syrup and bitters.
Build the Drink:
Pour the bourbon over the muddled blackberries. Add a large ice cube (or a few smaller ones) to the glass. The ice will help chill the cocktail and dilute it slightly, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Stir to Combine:
Gently stir the cocktail for about 15–20 seconds. Stirring helps mix the flavors and chill the drink while ensuring the blackberries are fully incorporated into the bourbon and syrup.
Garnish with Orange Peel:
To finish, take a fresh orange peel and express it over the glass by holding it over the cocktail and giving it a twist. This releases the citrus oils, which add an aromatic freshness to the drink. Drop the peel into the glass for added flair.
Tips for the Perfect Blackberry Old Fashioned:
Use Fresh, Ripe Blackberries:
Fresh blackberries are essential for achieving the right balance of sweetness and tartness. Choose ripe, plump berries for the best flavor. Overripe or mushy berries may not provide the best taste or texture.
Adjust the Sweetness:
The amount of simple syrup can be adjusted depending on your taste preferences. If you prefer a sweeter drink, add a bit more syrup; for a less sweet variation, use less syrup or muddle fewer blackberries.
Experiment with the Garnish:
While the orange peel is traditional for an Old Fashioned, you could experiment with other citrus fruits, such as lemon or lime, for a slightly different aroma. A few extra blackberries as garnish could also add a nice visual touch.
Choose Your Bourbon Wisely:
As bourbon is the base of this cocktail, it’s important to choose a high-quality bottle. Look for a bourbon with a smooth, rich flavor that complements the blackberries without being overpowering.
Don’t Over-Muddle:
When muddling the blackberries, avoid crushing them too much. You want to release the juices and flavors but not completely mash them into a puree. This will ensure the drink doesn’t become too pulpy.
Variations of the Blackberry Old Fashioned:
Smoked Blackberry Old Fashioned:
For an extra layer of complexity, add a smoky element by using a smoked bourbon or infusing your bourbon with smoke using a smoking gun. This adds a rich, campfire-like flavor that pairs wonderfully with the blackberries.
Spicy Blackberry Old Fashioned:
Add a slice of fresh jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the muddling process for a spicy kick. The heat will contrast with the sweetness of the blackberries and bring a bold, exciting twist to the classic.
Herbal Blackberry Old Fashioned:
Add a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme to the muddle along with the blackberries. The herbs will add an aromatic, herbal note that enhances the depth of the drink and pairs well with the bourbon.
Honey Blackberry Old Fashioned:
Instead of using simple syrup, try using honey for a richer, more natural sweetness. Honey will add depth and complexity, complementing the smoky bourbon and sweet blackberries.
Serving Suggestions:
The Blackberry Old Fashioned is perfect for sipping slowly, making it a great choice for a relaxed evening with friends or a quiet night in. Pair it with rich appetizers like charcuterie, smoked meats, or roasted nuts. The bold flavors of the cocktail pair particularly well with the savory notes of aged cheeses, such as blue cheese or gouda.
For a light pairing, serve it with dark chocolate, which complements the fruity and smoky flavors of the drink. A piece of dark chocolate with sea salt can provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the blackberries and the bitterness of the bourbon.
Conclusion:
The Blackberry Old Fashioned is an exciting variation of the timeless Old Fashioned, combining the rich depth of bourbon with the fruity brightness of fresh blackberries. This drink offers a wonderful balance of sweet, tart, and smoky flavors that will please both bourbon lovers and those looking for something a bit more adventurous. Whether you’re enjoying it at a cozy gathering or as an after-dinner treat, the Blackberry Old Fashioned is sure to impress and provide a new twist on a classic favorite.
Cheers to a bold and fruity cocktail experience! 🍸