Blackberry Margarita Smash Cocktail Recipe

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Blackberry Margarita Smash Nutrition Facts

Calories:200

Fat:0g

Protein:0g

Carbohydrates:20g

Alcohol:14%

Created by

Nic Polotnianko

I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.

Last Updated: January 16, 2024

History

The Blackberry Margarita Smash is a modern twist on the classic Margarita. It's a cocktail that has gained popularity for its unique combination of flavors and its visually appealing presentation. The use of fresh blackberries and sage gives it a seasonal touch that makes it particularly popular in the summer and fall.

  • Origins: The Margarita itself has a disputed history, with several bartenders claiming to have invented it in the mid-20th century. The Blackberry Margarita Smash is a more recent innovation.
  • Popularity: This drink is a favorite among those who appreciate a balance of sweet and tart flavors, as well as a hint of herbal notes from the sage.
  • Occasions: Perfect for outdoor gatherings, barbecues, or as a refreshing happy hour choice.

How Blackberry Margarita Smash Tastes?

The Blackberry Margarita Smash offers a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors. The blackberries provide a fruity sweetness that's complemented by the sharpness of the lime juice. The agave nectar adds a smooth, mellow sweetness, while the sage brings a subtle earthy note. The mezcal introduces a smoky undertone that adds complexity to the drink.

Interesting facts about Blackberry Margarita Smash

  • Fresh blackberries not only add flavor but also give the cocktail a vibrant color.
  • Mezcal is chosen over tequila for its smoky flavor, which pairs well with the sweetness of the berries.
  • The cocktail is often served in a glass with a raw sugar rim, adding an extra layer of texture and sweetness.

Ingredients

  • Blackberries: 8-10
  • Sage leaves: 2-3
  • Agave nectar: 1 oz(30ml)
  • Lime juice: 1 oz(30ml)
  • Pomegranate juice: 1 oz(30ml)
  • Mezcal: 2 oz(60ml)
  • Ice: As needed
  • Raw sugar: For rimming

Blackberries

These add a mellow tartness and fruit-forward flavor, with a deep purple hue that's visually stunning. Skimp on these and you lose some pizzazz; overdo it and it's blackberry overload.

Emma Rose

Sage Leaves

Earthy and slightly peppery, these guys aren't just for Thanksgiving turkeys. They lend an aromatic whisper that says, "I'm fancy." Forget them, and you lose that herbaceous je ne sais quoi. Sage advice—don't skip them!

Mary Mitkina

Agave Nectar

Sweet but not cloying, it's the sweetener with a heart of gold (or amber). It bonds the fruit and booze like a peace treaty. Use less and your drink might pucker up; too much and it's a sugar rush.

Alex Green

Lime Juice

It's the sour to your sweet, the yin to your yang. Without it, you're just drinking fruit salad. But an acid storm will make your taste buds cry for mercy.

Emma Rose

Pomegranate Juice

Here for a good time, not a long time, it adds sweetness and tartness while bringing antioxidants to the party. Lose it, and you miss out on a layer of complexity.

Mary Mitkina

Mezcal

Smokey, sultry, and suave. It's the liquid swagger in your cocktail. Swapping it for tequila is like choosing a convertible over a motorcycle—still fun, but a different thrill.

Alex Green

Ice

The unsung hero of cocktails, it chills, it dilutes, it brings all the flavors together in a harmonious chillfest. No ice means you're sipping on lukewarm sadness.

Emma Rose

Raw Sugar

It provides a sweet kiss on the rim to welcome your first sip. Miss this step, and the glass might just give you the cold shoulder.

Mary Mitkina

Recipe. How to make Blackberry Margarita Smash Drink

  1. Prepare the Glass:
    • Rim the edge of the glass with lime juice and dip into raw sugar.
    • Fill the glass 3/4 with ice.
  2. Muddle the Ingredients:
    • In a cocktail shaker, combine the blackberries, torn sage leaves, agave nectar, and lime juice.
    • Muddle until the blackberries are well smashed.
  3. Mix the Cocktail:
    • Add ice to the shaker.
    • Pour in the mezcal and pomegranate juice.
    • Shake vigorously until the mixture is very cold.
  4. Serve:
    • Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
    • Garnish with a fresh sage leaf.

Pro Tips

  • Use fresh blackberries for the best flavor and muddle them gently to release their juices without crushing the seeds.
  • Chill the glass beforehand to keep the cocktail colder for longer.
  • For an extra touch of smoke, you can briefly flame a sage leaf over the drink before garnishing.

Perfect Pairings

Appetizers

  • Grilled Shrimp: The smokiness of the shrimp complements the mezcal, while the blackberry adds a fruity counterpoint.
  • Cheese Plate: Opt for creamy cheeses like goat cheese or brie to balance the acidity and sweetness of the cocktail.
  • Spicy Dishes: Rich and spicy Mexican dishes, such as tacos al pastor, nicely pair with the refreshing qualities of the margarita.

Desserts

  • Dark Chocolate: Its bitterness accentuates the sweet and tart profile of the margarita.
  • Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A simple scoop can be enhanced by the fruit and herb notes in the drink.

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What you could change in Blackberry Margarita Smash

  • Mezcal: If you don't have mezcal, a smoky tequila can be a good substitute.
  • Agave Nectar: Honey or simple syrup can be used if agave nectar is not available.
  • Pomegranate Juice: Cranberry juice can be a substitute, though it will alter the flavor profile slightly.

Explore all drinks starting with B here

And of course - twists🍹

Spicy Blackberry Margarita Smash

  • Add a slice of fresh jalapeño to the muddle step. It's like your drink donned a tiny sombrero and started dancing—spicy and lively, sure to kick up the heat.

Blackberry Basil Margarita Smash

  • Replace sage with fresh basil leaves. It's pleasantly herby, with a touch of sweetness and a hint of anise—like the margarita came back from a spa day in the Italian countryside.

Frozen Blackberry Margarita Smash

  • Instead of ice cubes, blend the entire concoction with crushed ice. This creates a slushy-like consistency that's perfect for pool parties. You'll think you're on vacation, even if you're just sitting on your porch.

In case you forgot basics how to make Blackberry Margarita Smash

Add your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.

Learn everything on how to shake

Place your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.

Learn everything on how to strain

The key to proper muddling is to crush the ingredients just enough to release their flavors and not overdo it. Over-muddling can result in a bitter taste, especially with herbs.

Learn everything on how to muddle

Garnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).

Learn everything on garnishing

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Frequently Asked Questions on Blackberry Margarita Smash

Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the Blackberry Margarita Smash?

Yes, you can make a mocktail version by substituting the mezcal with a smoky tea or non-alcoholic spirit that mimics the smoky flavor of mezcal.

How can I store leftover ingredients like fresh blackberries and sage?

Fresh blackberries can be stored in the fridge for 3-5 days, while sage leaves can be wrapped in a damp paper towel and placed in a plastic bag in the crisper drawer for the best longevity.

What type of glass is best for serving the Blackberry Margarita Smash?

The traditional glass for a margarita is a wide-brimmed margarita glass, but this cocktail can also be served in a rocks glass or a tumbler for a more casual presentation.

How do I achieve the perfect balance of sweet and tart in my cocktail?

The key is to taste as you go and adjust the quantities of sweetener and lime juice accordingly. Everyone's palate is different, so tailor the balance to your preference.

Is there a particular time of year that's best for making Blackberry Margarita Smashes?

While it can be enjoyed year-round, this cocktail particularly shines in the summer and fall when blackberries are in season and at their sweetest.

Can I use frozen blackberries for this recipe?

Absolutely. Just let them thaw first so you can muddle them easily. Keep in mind that frozen blackberries may be less sweet than fresh, ripe ones.

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