Pin Cool down with this refreshing Blackberry Sage Mocktail, a vibrant summer cooler that perfectly balances the sweetness of fresh fruit with aromatic herbs. This non-alcoholic drink is served over a bed of crushed ice, making it as beautiful as it is delicious.
Pin The combination of muddled blackberries and fragrant sage leaves creates a complex flavor profile that is elevated by a splash of fresh lemon juice. It is the ultimate treat for hot afternoons or elegant evening gatherings.
Ingredients
- Fruit & Herbs: 1 cup fresh blackberries, 4 fresh sage leaves (plus extra for garnish), 1/2 lemon (juiced)
- Sweetener: 1–2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup (to taste)
- Liquids: 1 cup sparkling water or club soda
- Ice: 2 cups crushed ice
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a cocktail shaker or sturdy glass, muddle the blackberries and sage leaves together until the berries are well crushed and the sage is fragrant.
- Step 2
- Add the lemon juice and honey or agave syrup. Stir or shake until the sweetener is dissolved.
- Step 3
- Fill two glasses with crushed ice.
- Step 4
- Strain the blackberry-sage mixture evenly over the ice in each glass, pressing to extract as much juice as possible.
- Step 5
- Top each glass with sparkling water. Stir gently to combine.
- Step 6
- Garnish with extra sage leaves and a few whole blackberries. Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best texture, use a fine mesh strainer to remove the berry seeds and sage bits when pouring. A sturdy muddler or the back of a large spoon works perfectly to release the essential oils from the sage and the juice from the blackberries.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Customize your drink by substituting lime juice for lemon to get a different citrus twist. For extra zing, replace the sparkling water with ginger ale. If you prefer an alcoholic version, simply add 1 oz of gin or vodka per serving.
Serviervorschläge
This drink is best served immediately in chilled glasses. Don't forget to garnish with fresh sage leaves and a few whole blackberries to highlight the fresh ingredients used in the mix.
Pin Whether you're lounging by the pool or hosting a summer dinner, this Blackberry Sage Mocktail is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the cooling sensation of crushed ice combined with these bold, garden-fresh flavors!
Recipe Q&A
- → How do I enhance the blackberry flavor?
Muddle fresh blackberries thoroughly to release their juice and aroma, enhancing the overall flavor.
- → Can I substitute lemon juice with another citrus?
Yes, lime juice works well for a tangy twist, adding a different citrus brightness to the cooler.
- → What is the best way to muddle sage leaves?
Gently press the sage leaves with a muddler to release their oils without tearing them apart, preserving aroma.
- → Which sweetener options suit this blend?
Both honey and agave syrup provide natural sweetness—choose agave for a vegan-friendly option.
- → How should the crushed ice be prepared?
Use finely crushed ice to ensure the drink stays cool and dilutes slowly, keeping flavors balanced.
- → Can sparkling water be substituted?
Soda water or club soda can be used to add bubbles and enhance the refreshing quality of the drink.