Blackberry Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that dates back to the early 19th century. It's a testament to the timeless appeal of whiskey. The Blackberry Old Fashioned is a modern twist on this venerable drink, infusing it with the tart sweetness of blackberries and a hint of herbal complexity.

• Origins: The original Old Fashioned was likely invented in Louisville, Kentucky.
• Popularity: It gained popularity at the Pendennis Club, where it was first mixed.
• Evolution: The Blackberry Old Fashioned emerged as bartenders began experimenting with fruit-infused versions of classic cocktails.
• Target Audience: This cocktail is perfect for those who appreciate a classic whiskey drink with a fresh, fruity twist.

The Blackberry Old Fashioned is a harmonious blend of sweet and sour with a robust whiskey foundation. The muddled blackberries contribute a tart fruitiness, while the simple syrup and bitters balance it with sweetness and depth. The orange peel garnish adds a zesty aroma and a slight bitterness that complements the drink's complexity.

• Versatility: The Blackberry Old Fashioned can be made with various types of whiskey, depending on personal preference.
• Seasonality: Blackberries are in peak season during the summer, making this an excellent choice for a seasonal cocktail.
• Customization: Bartenders often put their own spin on this drink by using different bitters or garnishes.

1. Muddle the blackberries in the bottom of a mixing glass.
2. Add bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and bitters.
3. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir until well-chilled.
4. Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
5. Express the orange peel over the drink and drop it in as garnish.

• Muddling: Gently muddle the blackberries to release their juice without crushing the seeds, which can add bitterness.
• Chilling: Stir the cocktail in the mixing glass longer than usual to ensure it's perfectly chilled.
• Garnish: Use a vegetable peeler to get a wide, thin strip of orange peel for an elegant garnish.

Food Pairings

• Grilled Meats: The richness of bourbon and the sweetness of blackberries complement the smoky flavors of grilled meats, especially pork or beef.
• Cheese Platters: Opt for bold cheeses like blue cheese or aged cheddar that can stand up to the depth of the cocktail.
• Dark Chocolate Desserts: The fruity and bold flavors in the drink will harmonize with the bittersweet taste of dark chocolate.
• Savory Pies: A meat pie with a flaky crust can be delightful alongside the Old Fashioned's complexity.

Drink Pairings

• Coffee: A rich espresso or cold brew coffee can be a nice follow-up to the cocktail, especially if sipping after dinner.
• Sparkling Water: To cleanse the palate between sips, a fizzy sparkling water is both refreshing and neutral.

• Whiskey: If bourbon isn't your style, try using rye for a spicier flavor profile.
• Blackberries: When out of season, raspberry or cherry can provide a similar fruitiness.
• Bitters: Experiment with different bitters like orange or chocolate for a unique twist.

Raspberry Old Fashioned

Swap blackberries for raspberries and you'll get a brighter, slightly more tart profile. The change adds an extra zing to each sip. Ingredients: Use raspberries instead of blackberries. Recipe: Follow the original recipe, replacing blackberries with raspberries.

Honey Bourbon Old Fashioned

Using honey syrup instead of simple syrup adds a floral note and a touch of elegance that marries beautifully with the smoky oak of the bourbon. Ingredients: Replace simple syrup with honey syrup. Recipe: Mix in honey syrup with the usual muddle, stir, and garnish routine, standing in for the simple syrup.

Smoke & Spice Old Fashioned

For a smoky twist, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the blackberries when muddling, and use a smoked bourbon if available. This combination will remind you of a crisp night by the campfire. Ingredients: Smoked paprika, smoked bourbon (optional). Recipe: Add the smoked paprika to the blackberries during muddling. Use smoked bourbon for an enhanced smoky flavor.