New Loves Cocktail Party, Part 1: the Bramble

A couple of months ago, I had the pleasure of preparing some cocktails for a party hosted by my good friend Kori.  Originally, the party was to be held on St. Valentine's day, but, because I had other things to do, it was delayed.  The theme was Valentine-y, though: New Loves.  The idea was to introduce some new cocktails which have been relatively recently invented but are as good as the classics.  In time, one or a few of these might come to mind when one contemplates the great cocktails, as perhaps the Daiquri or the Sazerac might to mind today.

In the next few weeks (or less), I'll introduce eleven drinks I served to a thirsty gathering last February 18...

To begin our run-down of the featured cocktails (and the evening's festivities), let's address the Bramble.

Our oldest player, this drink was invented in the 1980s by Dick Bradsell in London.  It's a rejuvenated sour (spirit+citrus+sugar) with the sparkling edition of blackberry liqueur (creme de mûre) for a fruity accent.  Although creme de mûre is not a commonly-used ingredient, it's well worth the cost of a bottle; if you like a fresh, sweet, citrusy drink for hot summer days, there's no better libation than the Bramble.

2 oz London dry gin (Plymouth)
1 oz fresh lemon juice
1/2 oz creme de mûre
~1/2 oz simple syrup (to taste)

Shake with ice; and strain into an ice-filled glass.  Garnish with blackberries, and serve with a straw.