Blackberry Bourbon Sidecar

The Blackberry Bourbon Sidecar takes a classic cocktail and gives it a modern twist with the addition of fresh blackberries and the substitution of bourbon for the traditional cognac.

This deep purple drink balances sweet fruit flavors with the warmth of bourbon and the brightness of citrus. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a sophisticated after-dinner drink, this cocktail will impress both bourbon lovers and those who prefer fruitier options.

What Goes Into a Blackberry Bourbon Sidecar

To make this delicious cocktail, you’ll need:

• 2 oz bourbon whiskey
• 1 oz Cointreau or triple sec
• ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
• ½ oz simple syrup
• 4-5 fresh blackberries (plus extra for garnish)
• Sugar for rimming the glass (optional)
• Ice cubes for shaking
• Lemon twist for garnish

How to Mix the Perfect Blackberry Bourbon Sidecar

1. Prepare your glass by running a lemon wedge around the rim and dipping it in sugar if desired.
2. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the blackberries with simple syrup until they break down completely.
3. Add the bourbon, Cointreau, and fresh lemon juice to the shaker.
4. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
5. Double-strain the mixture into your prepared glass to remove any blackberry seeds.
6. Garnish with a skewer of fresh blackberries and a lemon twist.

The double-straining technique is crucial here. First strain through your regular shaker strainer, then through a fine mesh strainer to catch all the small berry bits.

Swap It Out: Alternative Ingredients

Can’t find some ingredients? Try these substitutions:

• No bourbon? Use rye whiskey for a spicier profile or cognac to return to the sidecar’s roots.
• No Cointreau? Any orange liqueur works, including Grand Marnier or basic triple sec.
• No blackberries? Raspberries, blueberries, or even strawberries can work well.
• No fresh berries? Use 1 oz of blackberry preserves or ¾ oz blackberry liqueur.
• For a less sweet version, reduce or omit the simple syrup.
• Want a non-alcoholic version? Use non-alcoholic bourbon alternatives, orange juice concentrate, and lemon juice.

Why This Cocktail Stands Out

The Blackberry Bourbon Sidecar hits all the right notes. The bourbon brings warmth and depth with its caramel and vanilla notes, while the blackberries add a tart sweetness that pairs perfectly with the whiskey. The lemon juice brightens everything up with acidity that balances the drink.

What makes this cocktail special is how the muddled blackberries transform both the flavor profile and color of the drink. The deep purple hue makes it visually striking, while the fresh berry flavor adds complexity you won’t find in a traditional sidecar.

The sugar rim adds a sweet counterpoint to the tart and boozy elements, creating a well-rounded drinking experience.

The Story Behind the Glass

The original Sidecar cocktail dates back to World War I and was named after the motorcycle attachment popular during that era. It traditionally contained cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice.

The bourbon variation emerged during the American cocktail renaissance of the early 2000s, when bartenders began experimenting with classic recipes. The addition of blackberries is a more recent innovation, likely originating in craft cocktail bars around 2010 as part of the farm-to-glass movement that emphasized fresh, seasonal ingredients.

While not a historical classic, the Blackberry Bourbon Sidecar represents how cocktail culture evolves through innovation while respecting traditional techniques and flavor combinations.

Flavor Profile: What to Expect

The Blackberry Bourbon Sidecar offers a complex taste experience:

• First sip: Sweet and slightly tart from the sugar rim and blackberries
• Mid-palate: Warmth from the bourbon with caramel and vanilla notes
• Finish: Bright citrus from the lemon and orange liqueur
• Aftertaste: Lingering bourbon warmth with subtle berry sweetness

The texture is silky with a pleasant weight from the bourbon and berry puree. The color ranges from deep purple to reddish-amber depending on the blackberries and bourbon used.

How to Serve Your Blackberry Bourbon Sidecar

For the best experience, serve this cocktail:

• Glass: Chilled coupe or martini glass
• Temperature: Cold, straight up without ice
• Timing: As an after-dinner drink or evening cocktail
• Season: Summer through fall when blackberries are at their peak

Make sure to serve immediately after preparation while the drink is still cold and the sugar rim is intact.

For a special presentation, serve the cocktail with a small plate of additional fresh blackberries dusted with powdered sugar.

Perfect Pairings: Food That Works

This cocktail pairs well with:

• Soft cheeses like brie or camembert with honey
• Dark chocolate truffles or chocolate-dipped berries
• Duck or game meat canapés
• Prosciutto-wrapped melon
• Spiced nuts, especially pecans or walnuts
• Shortbread cookies or almond biscotti

The fruit and bourbon notes in the cocktail complement rich, savory foods while also pairing well with desserts that aren’t overly sweet.

The Strength Factor: Alcohol Content

The Blackberry Bourbon Sidecar is a relatively strong cocktail:

• Bourbon (40% ABV): 2 oz = 0.8 oz pure alcohol
• Cointreau (40% ABV): 1 oz = 0.4 oz pure alcohol
• Total pure alcohol: Approximately 1.2 oz

The total alcohol by volume of the mixed drink comes to about 23-25% ABV, making it stronger than wine but not as potent as a straight spirit. The sweetness and fruit flavors can mask this strength, so sip slowly.

Nutrition Facts

For those tracking their intake, here’s a breakdown of the Blackberry Bourbon Sidecar:

• Calories: Approximately 220-250 calories
• Carbohydrates: 15-20g (primarily from the simple syrup, Cointreau, and blackberries)
• Sugar: 14-18g
• Fat: 0g
• Protein: <1g
• Fiber: <1g (from the blackberries)

The calorie count largely comes from the alcohol content and added sugar. You can reduce the calorie content by using less simple syrup or a sugar substitute.

Tips for Making Your Best Blackberry Bourbon Sidecar

• Use fresh blackberries for the brightest flavor. Frozen can work in a pinch but won’t provide the same visual appeal.
• Choose a quality bourbon with notes that complement berries. Woodford Reserve, Maker’s Mark, or Buffalo Trace work well.
• Fresh lemon juice is essential—bottled versions won’t provide the same bright acidity.
• Chill your serving glass in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before making the drink.
• For the sugar rim, use superfine sugar mixed with a small amount of lemon zest for extra flavor.
• Make a blackberry simple syrup by cooking berries with your syrup for more intense flavor.

Do you prefer your cocktails on the sweeter side or with more citrus kick? You can adjust the simple syrup and lemon juice to suit your taste.

This Blackberry Bourbon Sidecar offers a perfect balance between sophisticated and approachable. The next time you want to impress guests or treat yourself to something special, reach for the bourbon and blackberries. Your taste buds will thank you.