Blackberry Smoke Swirl

The Blackberry Smoke Swirl is a seductively smokey cocktail with a perfect balance between the earthy notes of mezcal and the sweet, tart essence of blackberries. Here's how to make this innovative cocktail: Ingredients: - 2 oz Mezcal (preferably a joven variety for its purer agave flavor) - 1 oz Fresh Blackberry Puree (made from about 6-7 muddled fresh blackberries) - 1/2 oz Fresh Lime Juice - 1/2 oz Simple Syrup - 1/4 oz Crème de Mûre (blackberry liqueur) - 2-3 Fresh Blackberries (for garnish) - A sprig of fresh Thyme (for garnish) Instructions: 1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the fresh blackberries to create a puree. 2. Add the mezcal, blackberry puree, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and Crème de Mûre to the shaker. 3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously until well-chilled. 4. Double-strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a chilled old-fashioned glass filled with ice to remove any blackberry seeds and pulp. 5. Garnish with fresh blackberries and a sprig of thyme for that aromatic touch. 6. Optionally, for an extra layer of smokiness, briefly flame the thyme sprig with a lighter and cover the drink to capture the smoke, then place the sprig on the drink. Glass: Serve in an old-fashioned glass to emphasize the cocktail's rustic and smoky nature, allowing the aroma of mezcal and thyme to envelope the senses with each sip.