The first day of summer sparked some interesting dialogue around the office. Some conversation on the Hiram Walker Facebook page started up around a recipe featuring the brand’s esteemed Blackberry Brandy, so we were off and running with ideas of our own for a new summer spritzer.
From there, it was off to the races and, as resident office bartender, I started combining Blackberry Brandy with a variety of both sweet, tropical-inspired and acidic juices. We eventually settled on the following formula:
Blackberry Brandy Spritzer:
- 1 1/2 parts Hiram Walker Blackberry Brandy
- 1 part Pineapple Juice
- 1/2 part Lime Juice
- Top with Lemon-lime Soda
Our first attempts found us using Simple Syrup in tandem with the lime juice, but that proved to be far too sweet when matched up with the pineapple juice. Continuing to top off the drink with the lemon-lime soda was ideal, as it continued to draw attention to some of the acidic components that were competing with the deep berry-flavored brandy.
A second version found us muddling a few blackberries with the lime juice and it
really helped to balance the flavors a bit more. I may suggest double straining this cocktail after muddling, but I actually found the specks of blackberries in there to be pretty and whimsical.
How would you improve upon this drink? Even if its tendency is to be a fireside sipper during the colder months of the year, I find that Blackberry Brandy does indeed pair well with a variety of fruit juices and it can be an ideal ingredient in a summer beverage.
My next inclination would be to try this with some bubbly, a Prosecco perhaps, instead of just the soda. Any of your recommendations or suggestions would surely be welcomed!
Cheers!
SJ