Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Fill your tall glass with ice cubes and set it aside to chill while you prepare the drink. Cut a lime wedge for the squeeze and reserve a fresh mint sprig for the top of the finished mojito.
- Pour 2 ounces of white rum into a jigger, then measure out your simple syrup. Having everything measured before you start prevents confusion and keeps the preparation smooth.
- Place 8 to 10 fresh blackberries in the bottom of a clean glass or the base of a cocktail shaker.
- Add 8 to 10 fresh mint leaves on top of the blackberries, then gently press and twist with your muddler for about 10 to 15 seconds to release the berry juice and mint oils without crushing the mint leaves too aggressively.
- Squeeze 2 to 3 lime wedges into the glass with the muddled berries and mint. Pour in the simple syrup and stir everything together for a few seconds to combine.
- Pour the blackberry and mint mixture into your ice-filled glass, straining out any large berry pieces or mint leaf bits if you prefer a smoother drink.
- Pour the measured 2 ounces of white rum over the ice and mixture. Give everything a gentle stir to combine the rum with the berry juice and lime.
- Fill the glass most of the way with sparkling water or club soda, leaving about a half inch at the top. Stir gently one more time to blend everything without losing too much carbonation.
- Drop a fresh mint sprig into the glass and set a lime wheel on the rim for a polished presentation. Serve immediately with a short straw.
Notes
Muddle gently and briefly to release flavor without bruising the mint leaves or making them turn brown and bitter. Use slightly overripe blackberries whenever possible because they're softer, juicier, and release more flavor when muddled. Make simple syrup ahead of time by heating equal parts sugar and water until the sugar dissolves, then cool completely before storing in the fridge.
