Lemon-Blackberry Sparkling Lambrusco and Gin Recipe

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

• Ice
• 1 ounce Blackberry Gin (recipe below)
• 1/2 ounce Simple Syrup (recipe below)
• 1/2 ounce lemon juice
• 3 ounces chilled Lambrusco
• 3 ounces club soda
• Blackberries and/or a thyme sprig for garnish

Directions

1. Fill a wineglass halfway with ice.
2. Add 1 ounce of Blackberry Gin, 1/2 ounce of Simple Syrup, and 1/2 ounce of lemon juice to the glass.
3. Top the drink with 3 ounces of chilled Lambrusco and 3 ounces of club soda.
4. Garnish with fresh blackberries and/or a sprig of thyme.

Blackberry Gin

To make Blackberry Gin, combine 1 cup of gin, 3/4 cup of fresh blackberries, and 1 sprig of fresh thyme in a canning jar. Secure the lid and shake well. Let the mixture sit in a cool, dark place for 1 to 3 days to infuse, shaking once or twice a day. Taste daily to determine your preferred flavor intensity. After the infusion period, strain the mixture over a small bowl. Discard the solids and return the liquid to the jar. Store in the fridge, covered, for up to 3 months. This recipe yields 1 cup of Blackberry Gin.

Simple Syrup

To make Simple Syrup, heat 1/3 cup of water and 1/3 cup of sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture thickens (about 3 to 5 minutes). Transfer the syrup to a canning jar and let it cool. Chill, covered, for 1 hour or up to 1 month. This recipe makes 1/2 cup of Simple Syrup.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	205
Total Fat	0g
Saturated Fat	0g
Cholesterol	0mg
Sodium	10mg
Total Carbohydrates	11g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Total Sugars	8g
Protein	0g
Vitamin C	5mg
Calcium	26mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	151mg

Note: Percent daily values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your individual daily values may vary. If you're following a medically restrictive diet, consult with your healthcare provider before preparing this recipe.

Origin and History

The Lemon-Blackberry Sparkling Lambrusco and Gin cocktail is a modern creation that reflects the growing trend of infusing spirits with fruits and herbs to create unique, flavorful drinks. This cocktail blends the effervescence of sparkling wine with the botanicals of gin, a combination that offers a refreshing and sophisticated drinking experience. Lambrusco, an Italian sparkling red wine, has a long history dating back to the Roman Empire, though it has only recently seen a resurgence in popularity in the United States. The addition of blackberries and thyme gives the drink a contemporary twist, showcasing the creative spirit of the modern cocktail culture. Infusing gin with blackberries and thyme adds a layer of complexity, while the combination of Lambrusco and club soda brings lightness and fizz to the drink.

Regional Variations

The ingredients used in the Lemon-Blackberry Sparkling Lambrusco and Gin cocktail are sourced from various parts of the world. Lambrusco, as mentioned, originates from the Emilia-Romagna region in northern Italy. It is a wine known for its deep red color and its fizzy, slightly sweet taste. Gin, the other main ingredient, has its roots in Europe, with its modern form originating in the Netherlands in the 17th century, though it became widely popular in Britain. Blackberries, a common fruit in both Europe and North America, provide the perfect tart balance to the sweetness of the Lambrusco. As for thyme, this herb is native to the Mediterranean region and is widely used in European cooking and beverages. While this cocktail is not tied to a specific regional tradition, it draws on flavors and ingredients from different parts of the world.

Distinctive Features

What sets the Lemon-Blackberry Sparkling Lambrusco and Gin apart from similar cocktails is its combination of sparkling wine and gin, which creates a unique balance of effervescence, sweetness, and herbal complexity. Many cocktails featuring gin are typically served as clear, crisp drinks, such as a Gin and Tonic, but this recipe adds the richness of Lambrusco, a red wine with bubbles, and the infusion of blackberries and thyme, which are not common in traditional gin-based drinks. This gives the cocktail a deeper, more aromatic profile that appeals to those seeking something refreshing yet flavorful. The infusion process for the gin allows the flavors to develop gradually, making it a customizable base for the drink.

Where Its Typically Served

The Lemon-Blackberry Sparkling Lambrusco and Gin cocktail is a great addition to any celebration or casual gathering. Its vibrant colors and fizzy texture make it an eye-catching option for parties, especially during summer months when fruity and refreshing cocktails are in high demand. It is also a wonderful choice for holiday events, where its festive presentation can complement seasonal themes. This cocktail is commonly served at upscale cocktail bars, restaurants with a focus on creative beverages, and at home during gatherings with friends or family. It pairs well with light appetizers, cheeses, or grilled dishes, making it a versatile choice for different occasions.

Interesting Facts

• Lambrusco, although historically known for its sweet and low-quality reputation, has seen a resurgence in popularity due to more refined, dry versions being produced today.
• Gin was originally created as a medicinal drink in the 17th century, but it evolved into the base spirit of many classic cocktails, such as the Gin Martini and Gin and Tonic.
• The combination of gin with fruit, particularly berries like blackberries, is a relatively new trend in the world of cocktails, driven by a growing interest in craft spirits and infused drinks.
• Blackberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins, making them not only a delicious addition to the drink but also a nutritious one.
• Thyme, while a savory herb, adds an unexpected complexity when used in cocktails, enhancing both the scent and the flavor profile of the drink.

FAQ about Lemon-Blackberry Sparkling Lambrusco and Gin Recipe

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