This week's feature is the "Midnight Kiss" - an enchanting variation of the classic Dark 'n' Stormy that emerged in the craft cocktail renaissance of the early 2010s. While the Dark 'n' Stormy's origins trace back to Bermuda's sailing community in the 1800s, our modern interpretation adds blackberry liqueur, transforming this maritime classic into a romantic masterpiece.
we're concluding our "Love Potions" series with a cocktail that proves romance doesn't end with Valentine's Day. As February draws to a close, this sophisticated sipper reminds us that love, like fine rum, only gets better with time.
Don't worry about taking notes as I'm giving out the ingredients and instructions. They're always posted on bourbongospel.com
Ingredients
- 2 oz dark rum (preferably aged)
- 0.75 oz blackberry liqueur
- 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
- Ginger beer to top
- Fresh blackberries and mint sprig for garnish
Directions
- Fill a collins glass with fresh ice
- Add rum, blackberry liqueur, and lime juice
- Stir gently to combine
- Top with ginger beer
- Garnish with skewered blackberries and mint sprig
Flavor Profile
- Primary: Rich rum, spicy ginger
- Secondary: Sweet-tart blackberry
- Finish: Bright, effervescent, with warm spice notes
Why conclude our love potion series with this cocktail? The Midnight Kiss represents the sophisticated evolution of romance - where the sweetness of young love meets the complexity of maturity. The combination of aged rum and blackberry liqueur creates depth, while the ginger beer adds that spark that keeps romance alive.
Pro tip: The choice of rum matters significantly here. Look for an aged rum with notes of vanilla and caramel to complement the blackberry liqueur. Mount Gay Black Barrel or Appleton Estate Reserve Blend work beautifully.
As always, I'm open to hear your take and input. You can reach me at [email protected]