Blackberry Ginger Rye from Episode 11
This is the drink that Bootie and Bossy turned to when things went awry (get it?) during Bossy's last visit to Washington. Bootie first discovered this drink at the wonderful Whidbey Island Distillery where they have the best tasting room experience ever. If you are local, you must try their berry liqueurs (the blackberry is Bootie's favorite but they're all great). You can get the liqueurs at Total Wine in case you don't want to schlep out to Whidbey Island (although if you're making a day of it, a trip to Whidbey Island, and the distillery in particular, is definitely worth the visit). Sometimes you can also get the Bunker Rye Whiskey at Total Wine.
While the Whidbey Island rye whiskey and blackberry liqueur are amazing, you can substitute something else. It works well with most whiskies and berry liqueurs. We tried it with the single malt whiskey from the Terramar Brewstillery in Edison, Washington, which comes in a gorgeous light bulb bottle (and fits with the punny theme). I feel like the bottle is speaking to me, saying, "I have an idea! Let's have a drink." We have also had success with Framboise and Chambord. Use what you have but use the best that you have because life is short and you should definitely drink the good stuff first. Also, use the good yarn, but I digress. For the ginger beer, we like Fever Tree or Bundaberg or Cock N Bull. Definitely use fresh lime juice. You can add the soda water or omit it depending on your tastes.
1 oz Blackberry liqueur
1 oz Rye Whiskey
1 oz Ginger Beer
1 oz Soda Water
1 T fresh lime juice
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Serve over ice and garnish with fresh mint and lime.
Use whatever whiskey you like, but maybe not this bottle that Bossy found in her liquor larder!
