Place 6 fresh blackberries and 0.5 oz simple syrup into the shaker or mixing glass. Gently muddle until the berries are broken down and release their juices but not pulverized — about 8–10 presses.

Add liquids

Add 2 oz Bardstown Origin Series Bourbon and 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice to the muddled berries.

Shake

Fill the shaker with ice (or add ice to the mixing glass and stir if using a mixing glass) and shake vigorously for 10–12 seconds to chill and slightly dilute the drink.

Prepare glass

Fill a rocks glass with crushed ice, leaving a small mound above the rim for the classic Bramble presentation.

Strain & layer

Fine-strain the shaken cocktail over the crushed ice using a hawthorne or fine strainer to remove seeds and pulp.

Float liqueur

Carefully pour 0.5 oz blackberry liqueur (crème de mûre) over the back of a spoon so it gently sinks and creates a dark purple 'bleed' through the ice and cocktail.

Garnish

Garnish with a lemon wheel on the rim and a fresh blackberry speared or placed on top of the ice.

Serve

Serve immediately with a short straw. Advise the drinker to stir slightly to integrate the floated liqueur as they sip.

Tools

Use the muddler to press berries; use jigger to measure spirits and juices; use shaker and strainer for mixing and removing solids; serve in a chilled rocks glass filled with crushed ice.