Blackberry Bramble Recipe – Few cocktails strike the perfect balance between elegance, refreshment, and depth of flavor quite like the iconic Bramble. Originating in London in the 1980s, this modern classic pairs crisp gin with bright lemon juice and the deep berry richness of blackberry liqueur. The result is a cocktail that feels both sophisticated and approachable — ideal for warm summer evenings, holiday gatherings, or casual weekend entertaining.
At its heart, the Bramble is a celebration of contrast: tart citrus meets sweet berry, while the aromatic botanicals of gin add layers of herbal complexity
Recipe Overview
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Active Time: 10 minutes
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Resting Time: None
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Total Time: 10 minutes
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Cuisines: British / Contemporary Cocktail
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Course: Drinks / Cocktails
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Servings: 1 glass
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Calories (approx.): 210 kcal per serving
Equipment Needed
To prepare this cocktail smoothly and professionally, you’ll need:
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Cocktail shaker
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Hawthorne strainer (or fine mesh strainer)
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Jigger or measuring tool
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Bar spoon
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Rocks glass or lowball glass
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Ice crusher or mallet for crushed ice
While crushed ice is traditional, regular cubes can work in a pinch — but the crushed texture enhances dilution and creates the signature frosty presentation.
Ingredients
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2 oz gin (preferably London dry)
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1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
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¾ oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
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½ oz blackberry liqueur (Crème de Mûre preferred)
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Crushed ice
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Fresh blackberries (for garnish)
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Lemon slice or twist (for garnish)
Optional variations include muddled fresh blackberries for added fruit intensity or a splash of soda water for a lighter, spritz-style finish.
Instructions
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Prepare your glass.
Fill a rocks glass halfway with crushed ice so the glass begins to chill while you mix. -
Build the base.
In a cocktail shaker, combine gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup. -
Shake.
Add ice cubes to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 10–12 seconds until well-chilled. -
Strain and pour.
Strain the mixture over the crushed ice in your prepared glass. -
Add the signature blackberry ribbon.
Slowly drizzle the blackberry liqueur over the top.
It will cascade through the ice, creating a beautiful marbled effect. -
Top with more crushed ice (optional).
Dome the glass slightly to enhance presentation. -
Garnish and serve.
Add fresh blackberries and a lemon twist or slice for aroma and visual appeal.
Serve immediately and enjoy while chilled.
Nutrition
Approximate Nutrition Per Serving
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Calories: ~210 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 18–20 g
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Sugars: 17–19 g
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Fat: 0 g
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Protein: 0 g
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Sodium: <5 mg
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Alcohol content varies by gin brand and pour size.
Nutritional values are estimates based on standard ingredients and may vary depending on product selection and measurement adjustments.
This cocktail is best enjoyed responsibly and served fresh — it is not designed for batching far in advance. However, you may pre-mix the gin, lemon juice, and syrup and refrigerate the blend, adding ice and blackberry liqueur just before serving for ease during events.
Tips, Variations & Expert Pairings
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Spirit swap: Try a floral gin for a softer, aromatic twist or a bold juniper-forward gin for sharper structure.
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Berry upgrade: Muddle 2–3 fresh blackberries in the shaker for deeper color and fruit character.
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Herbal accent: Add a sprig of mint or rosemary for aroma and visual contrast.
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Mocktail version: Replace gin with tonic water or sparkling grape juice and use blackberry syrup instead of liqueur.
Food pairing suggestions include cheese boards, citrus desserts, light seafood, and charcuterie — foods that complement the berry-citrus interplay without overpowering the drink.
Final Thoughts
The Bramble is more than just a cocktail — it’s a refined yet playful expression of flavor balance, craft, and presentation. With minimal equipment and simple ingredients, it offers tremendous reward in both taste and style. Whether you’re mixing for yourself, entertaining guests, or expanding your personal cocktail repertoire, this drink delivers a memorable, bar-quality experience every time.
