Summer Tradition

A bourbon cocktail that honors family traditions while celebrating summer's bounty. Rich bourbon provides a warming base while fresh blackberry puree adds seasonal sweetness and beautiful color. Lemon juice brightens the drink, and fresh mint adds cooling aromatics. This cocktail connects past and present in every sip.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon

• 1 oz fresh blackberry puree*

• 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice

• 0.5 oz simple syrup

• Fresh mint sprig

• Blackberry cluster for garnish

*Fresh Blackberry Puree:

• 1 cup fresh blackberries

• 2 tablespoons water

Instructions

1. Prepare blackberry puree: Blend blackberries with water until smooth. Strain through fine mesh to remove seeds.

2. In a shaker, gently muddle mint leaves.

3. Add bourbon, blackberry puree, lemon juice, and simple syrup.

4. Add ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.

5. Double strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.

6. Garnish with a blackberry cluster and fresh mint sprig.

Notes

• Fresh blackberry puree keeps refrigerated for up to 3 days

• Muddle mint gently to avoid bitterness

• Double straining removes pulp and mint pieces

• The drink's color will deepen as it sits

• Best served in a rocks glass over fresh ice

Pairs well with: Summer barbecue, family gatherings, or storytelling sessions.