The Bramble Cocktail

This week's cocktail is The Bramble. I first spotted this drink at The Botanist in London's Sloane Square back in April. I love blackberries, and the idea of a simple combination of berries with gin sounded refreshing and perfect for Kitchen Caravan. I soon noticed the cocktail on bar menus throughout the city, and learned that it was a British staple. While most recipes call for blackberry flavored liquers, Emma and I like it made with fresh muddled berries. The little pulp balls from the blackberries are delightful additions to the drink, but if you prefer a smoother texture, you can strain them out. I should also mention that there are many new gin producers in the U.S., so ask your favorite package store if they carry any local labels. This is enough for 4 drinks:

The Bramble

1 cup blackberries
2 tablespoons agave nectar*
2 limes, halved
4 ounces gin
Sparkling water
Ice
4 jam jars or regular cocktail glasses
Optional garnish: fresh blackberries

Crush the 1 cup blackberries thoroughly and stir in the agave nectar. Leave for at least 30 minutes to macerate and sweeten the juices.
Divide the fruit liquid and pulp among the four glasses and stir in ½ a lime’s worth of juice. Add 1 ounce of gin to each glass, and stir in the ice. Top up with the sparkling water and garnish with the fresh berries, if using.

*If you are unfamiliar with or cannot find agave nectar near you, use 3-4 tablespoons of cane sugar instead.