This cocktail is one of those simple pleasures that never goes out of style. A Blackberry Old Fashioned brings together the deep, warming notes of whiskey with the juicy brightness of fresh blackberries. It’s smooth, a little sweet, and perfect for sipping slowly—whether you’re winding down on a summer evening or hosting friends. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it’s always a hit. Let me walk you through how to make it just right.
Blackberry Old Fashioned
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glassware: Rocks glass (or a short tumbler)
Ingredients
– 4–5 fresh blackberries (plus one extra for garnish)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup
– 2 oz (60 ml) whiskey (bourbon works beautifully)
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters
– Orange peel (for garnish)
– Ice
Method
- Muddle the berries. In a rocks glass, gently mash the blackberries with the simple syrup. You want to press just enough to release the juice—don’t crush the seeds, as they can turn the drink bitter.
- Add the whiskey and bitters. Pour in the whiskey and add two dashes of Angostura bitters. Give it a quick stir to mix everything together.
- Add ice and stir. Fill the glass with ice (a large cube works great here) and stir gently for about 15–20 seconds. This chills the drink and allows the flavors to come together without watering it down too much.
- Garnish and serve. Twist a strip of orange peel over the glass to release its oils, then drop it in. Add a whole blackberry on top if you like. Sip and enjoy!
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
– You can prep a batch of muddled blackberries and simple syrup up to a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
– If you’re making drinks for a group, mix everything except the ice and garnishes in a pitcher ahead of time. When ready to serve, pour over ice and garnish individually.
– Simple syrup keeps for about a month in the fridge, so it’s worth making a small bottle to have on hand.
Helpful Tips
– Use ripe blackberries: The juicier, the better. If they’re too tart, your drink might need a bit more syrup.
– Go easy on the muddling: You’re just coaxing out the juice, not pulverizing them.
– Chill your glass: Pop your rocks glass in the freezer for a few minutes before making the drink—it keeps things extra cold.
– Watch your syrup: If your whiskey is on the sweeter side (like some bourbons), try starting with less syrup and add more to taste.
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
– Whiskey: Bourbon adds sweetness, while rye gives a spicier edge. Try both and see which you prefer.
– Sweetener: Swap simple syrup with honey or agave syrup for a different kind of sweetness.
– Fruits: Raspberries or blueberries can step in for blackberries if that’s what you have.
– Bitters: No bitters? It’ll still be tasty, but bitters add a depth that balances the sweetness.
Try These Blackberry Cocktail Variations
Blackberry Bourbon Smash
– Muddle blackberries and a few fresh mint leaves
– Add bourbon, a splash of lemon juice, and simple syrup
– Shake with ice and strain into a glass
– Top with a mint sprig
Blackberry Whiskey Sour
– Shake whiskey, blackberries, lemon juice, simple syrup, and an egg white (for a frothy top)
– Strain into a chilled glass
Blackberry Mint Julep
– Muddle blackberries and mint
– Add bourbon and simple syrup
– Serve over crushed ice
Virgin Blackberry Old Fashioned
– Muddle blackberries with simple syrup and a dash of bitters (optional)
– Top with sparkling water and a splash of cranberry juice
– Serve over ice with an orange twist
Pair It With
Dark Chocolate
The rich bitterness of dark chocolate complements the bold whiskey and sweet berries perfectly.
Cheese Board
Sharp cheddar, blue cheese, and even a creamy brie all work beautifully with this cocktail.
Grilled Meats
Smoky grilled steak or pork chops pair wonderfully with the fruit-forward notes of the drink.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the patio. It’s simple, elegant, and always gets compliments. Once you’ve got the hang of it, it’s easy to tweak and make your own.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blackberries?
Yes, just thaw them first. They’ll release more juice but can be a bit mushier than fresh.
What’s the best whiskey to use?
Bourbon is a popular choice—it’s sweet and smooth. Rye whiskey adds a spicier, bolder flavor.
Can I make a big batch?
Absolutely. Multiply the ingredients and mix in a pitcher (minus the ice). Stir before serving over ice.
Is there a lower-sugar option?
Try cutting the syrup in half or swapping it with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit syrup.
Can I use other fruits?
Definitely! Raspberries or blueberries are great alternatives.
What if I don’t have bitters?
Bitters add depth, but you can skip them if needed. The drink will still be delicious—just a little less complex.
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The Blackberry Old Fashioned is a lovely mix of classic and fresh. It’s easy to make, easy to customize, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re new to cocktails or just looking for something a little different, this one’s worth keeping in your back pocket. Cheers!
