Step 1: Muddle the Blackberries
Start by placing 6-8 fresh blackberries in an Old Fashioned glass. Fresh blackberries are ideal for this recipe because they provide the best flavor and color, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen blackberries can also be used. Using a muddler or the back of a spoon, gently crush the blackberries to release their juice. Muddling the blackberries helps to infuse the drink with their natural sweetness and tartness, creating a rich base for the cocktail. You don’t need to pulverize the blackberries completely; just a few gentle presses will release enough juice to flavor the drink without introducing bitterness from the seeds.

Step 2: Add the Bourbon
Once the blackberries are muddled, add 2 ounces of your favorite bourbon to the glass. Bourbon serves as the backbone of this cocktail, so choose one that you enjoy drinking on its own. The warm, oaky flavors of the bourbon will blend beautifully with the blackberries, creating a smooth and balanced drink. For the best results, select a bourbon with a moderate level of sweetness and spice, as this will complement the fruity elements of the blackberries without overwhelming them.

Step 3: Add Simple Syrup and Bitters
Next, add 1/2 ounce of simple syrup to the glass. The simple syrup will provide a bit of extra sweetness to balance the tartness of the blackberries. You can adjust the amount of syrup to suit your personal preferences, but keep in mind that the blackberries already contribute some natural sweetness to the drink. Following the syrup, add 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters. Bitters add depth and complexity to cocktails, and the traditional Angostura bitters bring a subtle spiciness that pairs wonderfully with the bourbon and blackberries. Stir the mixture gently to combine all the ingredients.

Step 4: Add Ice
Fill the glass with large ice cubes. The larger the ice cubes, the slower they’ll melt, which helps to maintain the drink’s flavor profile. Small ice cubes or crushed ice can cause the drink to dilute too quickly, which can water down the rich flavors of the bourbon and blackberries. If you don’t have large ice cubes, you can use regular-sized ones, but be sure to stir the cocktail well to avoid over-diluting the drink.

Step 5: Stir and Garnish
Now, gently stir the cocktail to combine the ingredients and chill the drink. Be careful not to stir too vigorously, as you want to avoid splashing the drink out of the glass. After stirring, it’s time to garnish. Take a strip of orange peel and twist it over the glass to release the aromatic oils. You can also rim the glass with the peel if you prefer a more intense citrus aroma. Drop the peel into the drink and add a few extra blackberries for a visually appealing garnish. The final touch of orange peel enhances the drink’s aroma, making each sip more enjoyable.