Black Currant Rosemary Cocktail

Experience a touch of sophistication with the Black Currant Rosemary Cocktail. This elegant drink features the deep, tart profile of black currant perfectly balanced by the warmth of barrel-aged bourbon. A fragrant touch of fresh rosemary provides an herbal, aromatic finish that makes every sip a refined sensory experience.

Save to Pinterest

Whether you are looking for a savory companion for a cheese board or a stand-alone evening cocktail, this recipe delivers depth and character. The deep purple hue of the black currant liqueur ensures that it looks as impressive as it tastes.

Ingredients

• 2 oz barrel-aged bourbon
• 1 oz black currant liqueur (crème de cassis or similar)
• 0.75 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 0.5 oz simple syrup
• 1 small rosemary sprig (plus more for garnish)
• Black currants or lemon twist (optional, for garnish)
• Ice cubes

Perfect for simmering soups, baking casseroles, and serving cozy one-pot meals straight from oven to table.

Check price on Amazon

Instructions

Step 1

Gently clap the rosemary sprig between your hands to release its oils.

Step 2

Add the rosemary, bourbon, black currant liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker.

Step 3

Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15 seconds.

Step 4

Double strain into a chilled rocks glass filled with fresh ice.

Step 5

Garnish with a fresh rosemary sprig and, if desired, a few black currants or a lemon twist.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the most aromatic result, do not skip the step of clapping the rosemary. This physical action releases the oils without bruising the leaves, providing a clean herbal scent. Shaking vigorously is essential to properly chill the bourbon and integrate the thick black currant liqueur.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a lighter, more refreshing drink, you can top the finished cocktail with a splash of sparkling water or tonic. If you cannot find black currant liqueur at your local shop, it can be substituted with a homemade black currant syrup to maintain the signature tart flavor profile.

Serviervorschläge

For a sophisticated savory contrast, pair this cocktail with aged cheeses or smoked meats. The herbal notes of the rosemary and the acidity of the lemon juice cut through rich fats, making it an excellent accompaniment to a charcuterie board.

Save to Pinterest

This Black Currant Rosemary Cocktail is the perfect addition to your home bartending repertoire. Its balanced, sophisticated flavor profile is sure to impress, whether you are enjoying a quiet night in or hosting a gathering.

Handle kitchen cleanup easily by disposing of food scraps, packaging, and cooking waste without leaks or odors.

Check price on Amazon

Answers to Recipe Questions

→ What does black currant liqueur taste like?

Black currant liqueur, such as crème de cassis, offers a deep tart-sweet profile with rich berry notes. It provides a sophisticated fruitiness that balances beautifully against bourbon's warmth while adding complexity and depth to the overall flavor profile.

→ Why clap the rosemary sprig?

Gently clapping rosemary between your palms releases the herb's essential oils, maximizing its aromatic contribution. This simple technique amplifies the fragrant herbal notes throughout the cocktail without requiring muddling or prolonged infusion.

→ Can I make this without a cocktail shaker?

While a shaker creates the ideal dilution and texture, you can stir vigorously in a mixing glass or jar. The key is thoroughly incorporating ingredients with ice to achieve proper chilling and balance, though shaking creates a lighter, more aerated final result.

→ What's the best bourbon for this cocktail?

A mid-range barrel-aged bourbon works wonderfully here. Look for expressions aged 4-6 years with vanilla and caramel notes—the sweetness complements black currant's tartness while maintaining enough structure to stand up to the herbal rosemary element.

→ How can I adjust the sweetness?

Start with 0.5 oz simple syrup as written, then add more in small increments if preferred. The black currant liqueur provides substantial sweetness, so many find the written balance perfect. For a drier version, reduce the syrup to 0.25 oz.

→ What food pairs well with this cocktail?

The tart, herbaceous profile complements aged cheeses, smoked meats, and charcuterie beautifully. For lighter fare, try pairing with goat cheese crostini or dark chocolate desserts. The bourbon warmth also cuts through rich, creamy appetizers.