Blackberry Gin Cocktail

Mastering the simple syrup opens a world of sweet possibilities. We’ve used luscious blackberries to balance the bold flavour of gin to create a refreshing summer sipper. Or, if you prefer, you can make this as a delicious non-alcoholic “mocktail.”

Prep Time
5 minutes 30 minute chilling time
Cook Time
3 to 5 minutes
Image
Two blackberry gin fizz cocktails garnished with blackberries and mint leaves on a platter
Servings
4 servings
For the blackberry simple syrup:
  • ½ cup (108 g) Redpath® Golden Yellow Sugar, packed
  • ½ cup (104 g) fresh blackberries, washed
  • 5 pcs (10 g) lemon zest, wide strips
  • 6 tbsp (90 ml) water
For the cocktail:
  • 8 tbsp (120 ml) blackberry simple syrup (recipe above)
  • 12 pcs fresh blackberries, washed
  • 12 pcs mint leaves, washed
  • ½ cup (125 ml) lemon juice, preferably freshly squeezed
  • ½ cup (125 ml) gin
  • ½ cup (125 ml) sparkling water (club soda or tonic water)
Garnishes (optional):
  • Blackberries
  • Fresh mint leaves
  • Lemon slices, wheels, zest
Instructions
For the blackberry simple syrup (makes approximately ½ cup / 125 ml):

Step 1

In a small pot, over medium heat, combine the Redpath® Golden Yellow Sugar, blackberries, strips of lemon zest, and water. Crush the berries with the back of a wooden spoon or rubber spatula.

Step 2

Bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar; 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Set aside to cool to room temperature; 15 minutes. Place into the refrigerator to chill completely; 15 minutes or until needed.

Step 3

Strain cooled simple syrup through a sieve, gently pressing the berries to release as much of the liquid as possible. Discard solids or save to top ice cream, oatmeal, or stir into yogurt.

For the cocktail:

Step 1

Drop 3 blackberries into each of 4 lowball glasses. Add 3 mint leaves to each glass. Divide the fresh lemon juice amongst the 4 glasses, about 2 tablespoons (30 ml) per glass.

Step 2

With a muddler or the end of a wooden spoon, gently muddle the blackberries, mint, and lemon juice together until mint leaves are lightly bruised and blackberries have released some of their juices.

Step 3

Drizzle in 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of the blackberry simple syrup. Fill the glass with crushed ice. Add gin into each glass (2 tbsp / 30 ml). Top off with sparkling water. Garnish with blackberries, mint leaves, and/or lemon. Stir before sipping.

Image
Blackberry Bramble