Blackberry and Thyme Smash Cocktail

I worked in the food and beverage industry for many years while attending university and early on in my social work career.  One of the bars I worked in allowed for opportunities to try a lot of different alcohol.  Okay, so what I’m really saying here is we drank on the job.  A lot!  That is of course until the boss man caught on.  Don’t go getting judgy on me; in my defense, I was young(er) and having fun in a new city with new friends.  Life wasn’t serious yet 😉

As a result of my overindulgent lifestyle years ago, I have come to appreciate the art of alcohol.  As they say, there really is a science to it.  However, since leaving the bar scene I find myself always going for a red wine or craft beer when choosing an alcohol.  I don’t think I’ll ever tire of the two, but this past holiday weekend called for something a little different.  I was thirsty for a cocktail that had fall flavors but wanted to steer clear of apple as I had baked an apple pie for dessert (check out my homemade pie here).  When it became clear that plum season was over (four grocery stores later), I opted for blackberries in their place.  Not exactly a fall flavor, but yet paired nicely with the thyme simple syrup and was not too sweet in the cocktail.

This is a drink that can be made to suit your own tastes.  Personally, I don’t like drinks that are too sweet so I recommend using less syrup.  You can always add more to individual glasses if people desire a little more sweetness.  My photos don’t do it justice; these drinks looked really pretty and could just as easily be served for New Years Eve or summer picnics for a feminine twist to your bar.  Cheers!

 

Blackberry and Thyme Smash Cocktail
*makes 6-8 drinks

Ingredients

Thyme simple syrup:
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
12 sprigs of Thyme

In a small saucepan bring water and sugar to a boil.  Add sprigs of thyme and remove from heat.  Allow to sit for at least an hour.

1 pint of blackberries
2 bottles of sparkling white wine or champagne

Directions

Muddle blackberries with 3/4 cup of thyme simple syrup.

Pour 1 ounce (through a sieve) into each glass and top off with your sparkling wine.  Garnish with more blackberries and thyme sprigs if desired.  Enjoy!

By Three Happy Folk

Inspired by My Diary of Us