Black Currant Rosemary Cocktail (Printable Version)

Tart black currant meets warm bourbon and aromatic rosemary for an elegant, herbal finish.

# Needed Ingredients:

→ Spirits

01 - 2 fl oz barrel-aged bourbon

→ Fruit & Syrups

02 - 1 fl oz black currant liqueur
03 - 0.75 fl oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
04 - 0.5 fl oz simple syrup

→ Aromatics & Garnish

05 - 1 small rosemary sprig
06 - Black currants or lemon twist for garnish
07 - Ice cubes as needed

# Steps:

01 - Gently clap the rosemary sprig between your hands to release its essential oils and aromatics.
02 - Add the rosemary sprig, bourbon, black currant liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker.
03 - Fill the shaker with ice cubes and shake vigorously for 15 seconds until well-chilled.
04 - Double strain the mixture into a chilled rocks glass filled with fresh ice to remove all particles and diluted ice.
05 - Top with a fresh rosemary sprig and garnish with black currants or a lemon twist if desired. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The black currant brings a tart, jewel-like depth that bourbon alone could never achieve.
  • Rosemary transforms from a cooking herb into something herbaceous and unexpectedly aromatic in a glass.
  • It's simple enough for a weeknight but sophisticated enough for guests you actually want to impress.
02 -
  • Shake length matters more than vigor—a lazy 15 seconds won't chill it properly, but more than 20 seconds will over-water the drink.
  • If your rosemary is woody or old, it will taste bitter, so smell it first and use only fresh-looking sprigs.
03 -
  • Chill your glass with ice for 30 seconds before pouring—this small gesture keeps the drink cold longer and shows you respect it.
  • If you're making this regularly, keep a bottle of simple syrup in the fridge so you never have an excuse not to make it.
Go Back