Directions
<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Place 100g of blackberries in a cocktail shaker or mixing glass and add 4 sprigs of thyme (leaves removed from stems). Gently muddle the berries and thyme together until the berries release their juices but aren't completely mashed – about 30 seconds of gentle pressure. This controlled muddling extracts the aromatic compounds from the thyme without releasing bitter notes.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Add the fresh lemon juice and blackberry syrup to the muddled mixture. If using simple syrup and blackberry puree instead, add both now. Stir gently to combine all flavors.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Add a handful of ice to the mixture and stir for about 20 seconds to properly chill the base. The cold temperature will help mellow any sharpness from the berries while maintaining the delicate thyme flavor.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Fill two wine glasses or highball glasses halfway with fresh ice cubes. Using the fine mesh strainer, strain the blackberry-thyme mixture evenly between both glasses. The straining process ensures a smooth drinking experience without berry seeds or thyme fragments.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Top each glass with approximately 200ml of chilled sparkling water, pouring slowly down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation. The bubbles will carry the aromatic compounds to the nose, enhancing the overall sensory experience.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Garnish each glass with the remaining fresh blackberries, a sprig of thyme, and a thin lemon slice. For extra visual appeal, you can lightly bruise the thyme garnish between your fingers before adding it to release more of its aromatic oils.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Serve immediately while the drink is well-carbonated and the ice is fresh. The mocktail should display a beautiful gradient from deep purple at the bottom to a lighter hue at the top, with the carbonation actively carrying the thyme aroma.</li></ol>