Winter cocktails don’t have to be heavy, spiced, or overly sweet. This Blackberry Bourbon Frostbite Lemonade brings a bright punch of citrus and berry flavor to cold-weather sipping while keeping the warming comfort of bourbon at the center. The combination makes this drink perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy nights by the fire, or even a festive brunch.
Fresh blackberries give the cocktail its deep jewel tone, while muddling a few at the bottom adds both color and texture. Instead of using plain simple syrup, this upgraded version blends blackberries and mint into a fragrant, vibrant syrup that wakes up the lemon and bourbon beautifully. Just a splash of sparkling water finishes it off with a gentle fizz.
The bourbon lends depth and warmth without overpowering the brightness of the fruit. Paired with the citrus and herbs, it becomes a refreshing winter drink that still feels seasonally appropriate. The balance between tart, sweet, and smoky notes makes this cocktail incredibly easy to sip.
Finally, the garnishes—whole berries, lemon wheels, and a sprig of mint—not only make the drink stunning in a glass but also enhance the aroma with every sip. Whether you’re hosting guests or treating yourself, this cocktail strikes the perfect balance of cozy and refreshing.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 1 oz blackberry–mint simple syrup
- 3 oz sparkling water
- 0.5 cup blackberries
- ice cube
- Lemon wheels for garnish
- Fresh mint sprig for garnish
Instructions
- Add fresh blackberries to the bottom of a glass and gently muddle to release their juices.
- In a cocktail shaker, add bourbon, lemon juice, blackberry-mint simple syrup, and ice and shake until chilled.
- Fill your serving glass with ice and muddled berries and strain the shaker mixture over the top.
- Top with sparkling water and give a gentle stir.
- Add a lemon wheel, a few whole blackberries, and a fresh mint sprig.