Blackberry Shrub

Servings: 1 | Time: 15 minutes

A “shrub” is a spiked fruit juice cocktail that dates back to pre-colonial days. It has a refreshing, bright flavor that delights on a summery day. Brandy can replace the rum. Don’t let the vinegar in the homemade juice scare you off – when heated, it adds tang, not sourness. Shrubs are becoming popular with mixologists because of their handcrafted and fresh ingredients.

Directions

  1. In cocktail shaker combine blackberry juice and rum. Add ice cubes; cover and shake until very cold. Strain liquid into ice-filled rocks glass. Add sparkling water and fresh blackberries for garnish.

 

*Blackberry Juice

 

  1. In medium saucepan combine 4 cups blackberries, 2 cups sugar, and 1 cup red wine vinegar. Bring to boil, stirring to dissolve sugar. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, 10 minutes. Remove from heat, cover and let stand 1 hour and then strain. Discard blackberries.

Ingredients

 

2          ounces Blackberry Juice (recipe below) *

1 1/2      ounces light rum

1/2        cup ice cubes

3          ounces sparkling water

3          fresh blackberries