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Blackthorn

The Blackthorn is a strong cocktail, sweet and fruity on the palate. Stirred and served in a cocktail glass.

Flavor profile

Tart
56 out of 100
Sweet
93 out of 100
Fruity
88 out of 100
Herbal
59 out of 100
Boozy
61 out of 100

How to make a Blackthorn

To make a Blackthorn, stir with ice and strain into a cocktail glass: 1 oz sweet vermouth and 1½ oz Sloe gin. Garnish with lemon peel.

You'll need

1 drink

Instructions

  1. 1

    Chill a cocktail glass: fill it with ice and water while you mix, then tip it out.

  2. 2

    Pour sweet vermouth and sloe gin into a mixing glass (any sturdy glass works).

  3. 3

    Fill it with ice.

  4. 4

    Stir for 20-30 seconds, until the outside is cold to the touch.

  5. 5

    Strain into the chilled cocktail glass.

  6. 6

    Garnish with a lemon twist.

Why stir? Sweet vermouth and sloe gin are clear, so a gentle stir over ice chills and dilutes them without clouding the drink.

Blackthorn questions

What does a Blackthorn taste like?

Mostly sweet and fruity, with a noticeable alcohol warmth. It's a strong drink at about 18% ABV once mixed.

How strong is a Blackthorn?

About 18% ABV after mixing with ice, stronger than wine, lighter than a neat spirit.

Should a Blackthorn be shaken or stirred?

Stirred. Sweet vermouth and sloe gin are clear, so stirring chills it while keeping it silky; shaking would cloud it with tiny bubbles.

What glass do you serve a Blackthorn in?

A cocktail glass.