Shrubs date back to colonial times, when the acidity in the syrup served to preserve the fruit. A good shrub is both tart and sweet, stimulating the appetite while quenching thirst.
Substitute seltzer water for the bourbon for a refreshing, non-alcoholic beverage. The blackberry shrub syrup base in this recipe makes a double batch.
Ingredients
- 1 cup blackberries
- 1/2 cup honey
- 3/4 cup cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
Cocktail
- 8 oz. bourbon
- 6 large sprigs mint
- 4 cups ice
- 2 cups seltzer, chilled
Directions
In a glass or plastic container with a lid, combine berries and honey. Add vinegar and water and stir gently until honey is dissolved and berries have begun to release juices, being careful not to mash berries. Cover and refrigerate overnight or up to 1 week.
Cocktail
Transfer half of shrub mixture (with berries) to a large pitcher. Reserve remaining shrub for later use. Add bourbon and mint to shrub. Lightly bruise mint with a wooden spoon.
Add ice and seltzer to pitcher. Stir gently to combine and serve immediately.
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