The Blackberry Smash is a deep, dark, and incredibly refreshing cocktail that celebrates the bold flavors of the trail. This isn’t your average fruit drink; it’s a robust, whiskey-based “smash” that balances berry sweetness with herbal complexity.
The Details: A vibrant and fruit-forward whiskey smash featuring housemade syrups and fresh-muddled botanicals.
Price: $12
The Build:
- The Spirit: Starlite Blackberry Whiskey.
- The Sweetener: Housemade blackberry-sage simple syrup.
- The Brightness: Fresh lemon juice and a crisp soda finish.
- The Texture: Fresh-muddled blackberries.
- The Garnish: A dehydrated lemon wheel and a fresh blackberry skewer.
Berries, Botanicals, and Bourbon Roots
We chose Starlite Blackberry Whiskey because it represents a higher standard for flavored spirits. Produced by Starlight Distillery—an estate-based operation located on a family farm with over 180 years of history—this isn’t just whiskey with syrup added. They use their own high-quality, small-batch whiskey as the foundation, infusing it with real blackberry notes to create a spirit that is rich and authentic. It retains that classic whiskey warmth while offering a lush, jammy finish that anchors the entire cocktail.
The Craft: Why We Muddle
In a true “Smash,” the technique is just as important as the ingredients. By muddling fresh blackberries directly in the glass, we release the natural juices, oils, and textures of the fruit that you simply can’t get from a bottled mix. This “muddled” approach gives the drink its beautiful, cloudy violet hue and ensures every sip is packed with fresh-from-the-vine flavor. When combined with our housemade blackberry-sage syrup, the savory, earthy notes of the sage perfectly cut through the sweetness of the berries.
The Point Nine Experience: A Flavor Powerhouse
The Blackberry Smash is a lush and adventurous choice for those who want a cocktail with some real “heft.” It is a spectacular partner for the Trailside Burger. The whiskey’s sweetness and the acidity of the lemon act as a brilliant foil to the rich, savory flavors of our signature seared beef patty and melted cheese. The earthy sage notes in the drink help to highlight the fresh toppings on the burger, creating a well-rounded meal that feels substantial and satisfying. It’s the ultimate patio companion for a warm afternoon in Andover.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a very sweet drink? While it is fruit-forward, the lemon juice and the earthy sage in our housemade syrup provide a balanced, tart finish that keeps it from being cloying.
Is there actual whiskey in this? Yes! Starlite uses a true whiskey base, so you still get those classic notes of oak and grain alongside the blackberry.
What’s the difference between a “Smash” and a “Mojito”? While both involve muddling, a Smash is traditionally whiskey-based and focuses on seasonal fruit and herbs, whereas a Mojito is rum- and mint-focused.