Bramble Cocktail

By Steve Kilcullen Jump to Recipe

A classic gin cocktail that brings an explosive burst of blackberry flavor.

It’s around seven in the evening, and the light is getting low. As the sun wanes, the frogs from the nearby pond begin to ribbit. I’m sitting outside with tonight’s cocktail, a Bramble. What once was simply a Gin Sour now bears a float of crème de mûre – a mouthwatering blackberry liqueur. As I sit by the pool, listening to the sounds of crickets and watching the fireflies begin to float and spark, I marvel at how perfect the berry flavor mixes with the gin and lemon juice. And the dark, purple hue my icy beverage has matches the oncoming night sky. 

As I continue to enjoy my Bramble, I must confess something… When I sat down to write this piece, I was under the assumption that today’s recipe was a much older one. For whatever reason, my brain jumped to the idea of this drink being around since the 1800s, or was a favorite of the Prohibition era. I couldn’t be more wrong, which is okay. You hope to learn something new every day. And thinking this cocktail is from days of yore is a compliment in my book. 

In 1984, London bartender Dick Bradsell was working at Fred’s Club, a trendy bar in Soho. His childhood memories of blackberrying sparked the inspiration for a new drink. Combining a traditional London Dry gin with simple syrup, lemon juice and the aforementioned crème de mûre over crushed ice, Bradsell had invented a sweet, strong and delectable tipple. Named a Bramble, because of the bushes that blackberries grow on, his drink is anything but thorny. 

While some have labeled this drink as a springtime cocktail, I can assure you that it is also just as delicious, tart and enjoyable in the late summer. And as the heat of the day begins to decrease, a few Brambles help the evening festivities begin.

What is Crème de mûre?

Crème de mûre is a blackberry crème liqueur. This style of spirit has no cream in it, with the name referring to consistency. Crème liqueurs are usually made with such a large amount of sugar that the texture becomes almost syrupy and thick.

What is the Best Alcohol to Use in a Bramble Cocktail?

After you’ve chosen a high-proof London Dry gin – and I’d suggest anything traditional, from Bombay to No. 3 – it’s time to grab a bottle of crème de mûre. Where I live in Los Angeles, and where I’m currently visiting on the East Coast, bottles and brands of this liqueur are few and far between. But the prices are comparable, and not too crazy. Plus, I’ve tried a few of them and they pleased my taste buds, so you’ll be happy with what you get if you’re flying blind. If crème de mûre isn’t available, a bottle of crème de cassis, which is a black currant liqueur, will work in a pinch.

What kind of glassware and garnish is used?

Fill a rocks glass with crushed ice for your Bramble. Garnish with a few blackberries and a lemon wheel for an extra zing of fruit and citrus flavor.

Dick Bradsell’s name is familiar. What other cocktails is he associated with?

Bartender Dick Bradsell is also responsible for gifting the world with the strong, smooth and trendy Espresso Martini.

Similar Cocktails to the Bramble

You love the classics, but with a twist. You dig on soaking up the familiar, but don’t want the same old stuff. Makes perfect sense, especially because we’re only human. Try something too far off the beaten path and there’s a good chance you probably won’t enjoy yourself. But then again, maybe you will. Twist & Toast has more than a few recipes that’ll help you say “yes” to your next cocktail adventure.

• Eastside – Here’s a fresh, Southside-inspired gin-based beverage.
• Saketini – This Japanese-influenced martini is the perfect Friday night treat.
• Cucumber Margarita – Fresh and spicy, this jalapeño-tinged tipple is both refreshing and hot.
• Gin Mojito – A perfect blend of botanicals, mint and bubbles.