If you’re looking for a cocktail that combines simplicity and elegance, the Bramble is your new best friend. This refreshing gin-based drink features a blend of lemon juice, simple syrup, and crème de mûre. Perfect for summer, it is a modern classic created by a London barman in the 1980s.
To make a Bramble, you’ll need specific ingredients:
- Gin
- Lemon juice
- Simple syrup
- Crème de mûre
The Bramble offers a delightful mix of tart lemon and sweet blackberry flavors, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Equipment
To prepare the Bramble cocktail, you will need the following equipment:
- Cocktail shaker: Essential for mixing the ingredients.
- Strainer: To filter out ice and ensure a smooth drink.
- Rocks glass: The ideal glass for serving this cocktail.
- Jigger: To measure the liquid ingredients accurately.
- Bar spoon: Useful for gently stirring the drink.
- Crushed ice: Important for the cocktail’s presentation and taste.
The right tools ensure your cocktail comes together efficiently and looks professional.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make a Bramble cocktail:
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 1/2 oz crème de mûre (blackberry liqueur)
- Crushed ice
- Lemon half-wheel (for garnish)
- Fresh blackberry (for garnish)
Using fresh ingredients, especially lemon juice, enhances the cocktail’s flavor.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create the perfect Bramble cocktail:
- Add the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup into a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Shake the mixture until well-chilled.
- Fine-strain the mix into a rocks glass over crushed ice.
- Slowly pour the crème de mûre over the top to create a beautiful layering effect.
- Garnish with a lemon half-wheel and a fresh blackberry.
This method balances the flavors and delivers a visually appealing drink.
Tasting Notes
The Bramble cocktail features a balanced and refreshing taste. The gin provides a robust base, while the lemon juice adds a zesty tang. Simple syrup sweetens the mix evenly, and the crème de mûre lends a fruity and slightly tart note. The drink ends with a refreshing finish, thanks to the crushed ice and fresh garnish.
Similar Cocktails
If you enjoy the Bramble, you might also like:
- Tom Collins: Gin-based with lemon juice, simple syrup, and club soda.
- Blackberry Smash: Bourbon, fresh blackberries, mint, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Gin Fizz: Gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, egg white, and club soda.
These cocktails share similarities in ingredients and flavor profiles with the Bramble.
History
British bartender Dick Bradsell created the Bramble in 1984. He first mixed it at Fred’s Club in London’s Soho district. Inspired by his childhood memories of blackberry picking, Bradsell used crème de mûre to provide the signature blackberry flavor. The Bramble has since become a modern classic in the cocktail world.
Quick Pro Tips
- Chill your glass: A chilled rocks glass keeps the cocktail icy cold.
- Fresh is best: Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- Perfect garnish: A fresh blackberry adds authenticity and appeal.
- Layering matters: Pour the crème de mûre slowly for that distinctive layered look.
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