What is the Recipe About?
The Blackberry Sage Old Fashioned is a sophisticated cocktail that reinvents the classic Old Fashioned with the infusion of juicy blackberries and aromatic sage.
This unique combination adds a refreshing and earthy twist to the traditional bourbon-based drink, making it perfect for those who enjoy a complex and flavorful cocktail. Ideal for an evening drink or a special occasion, this cocktail offers a blend of sweet, tart, and herbal notes that delight the palate.
How to Serve?
Serve the Blackberry Sage Old Fashioned in a chilled rocks glass over a large ice cube to keep the drink cool without diluting its flavors.
Start by muddling fresh blackberries and sage leaves in the bottom of the glass to release their flavors. Add a dash of bitters and a teaspoon of simple syrup for sweetness. Pour in a generous measure of bourbon and gently stir to combine. Garnish with a sprig of fresh sage and a few whole blackberries for an elegant finish.
This cocktail is best enjoyed slowly, savoring the rich and layered flavors.
How to Pair?
This cocktail pairs beautifully with a variety of savory appetizers and main dishes. Consider serving it alongside a cheese platter featuring aged cheddar or blue cheese, which complement the drink’s bold flavors.
It also pairs well with grilled meats, such as steak or pork tenderloin, and can enhance the enjoyment of dishes with rich, savory profiles. For a dessert pairing, try dark chocolate truffles or a blackberry tart to echo the cocktail’s fruity notes.
Some Notes About the Recipe
- Blackberries: Use fresh, ripe blackberries for the best flavor and color. Frozen blackberries can be used if fresh ones are not available, but ensure they are fully thawed before muddling.
- Sage: Fresh sage leaves provide the best aroma and flavor. Be sure to muddle the sage gently to release its oils without overpowering the drink.
- Bourbon: Choose a high-quality bourbon with a smooth, rich flavor to complement the blackberries and sage. Avoid overly sweet or flavored bourbons.
- Bitters: Angostura bitters are traditional, but you can experiment with other types of bitters, such as orange or aromatic, to add different flavor nuances.
- Simple Syrup: Adjust the amount of simple syrup to suit your taste preference. For an added twist, you can infuse the simple syrup with sage or vanilla.
- Presentation: For an extra touch of elegance, consider rimming the glass with a mixture of sugar and finely chopped sage. This enhances both the visual appeal and the flavor profile of the drink.
Blackberry Sage Old Fashioned
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 tsp simple syrup
- 4 fresh blackberries
- 2 slices sage leaves
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle the blackberries and sage leaves.
- Add the bourbon and simple syrup to the shaker with ice.
- Shake well and strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with an additional blackberry and sage leaf.
- Serve and enjoy your Blackberry Sage Old Fashioned!