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
2 Comments
They were awesome!! I would love to try it again in plum season!
Next time I am opting for plums! A good excuse to make them again 🙂