Blueberry & Basil Sparkler – Elegant, Fresh, Unexpected

This drink combines the juicy depth of blueberries with the fresh, slightly peppery notes of basil. Add a touch of lemon, some fizz, and optionally a splash of gin or vodka – and you have a drink that feels like a summer garden party in a glass.

Ingredients (for 1 glass):

• ½ cup fresh blueberries

• 3–4 fresh basil leaves

• 1 tsp honey or simple syrup (adjust to taste)

• Juice of ½ lemon

• 5 cl gin or vodka (optional)

• Sparkling water or tonic

• Ice

• Lemon slice or basil sprig for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker or sturdy glass, muddle the blueberries and basil with honey and lemon juice until juicy and fragrant.

2. Add gin or vodka if using. Fill with ice and shake well.

3. Strain into a tall glass filled with ice.

4. Top with sparkling water or tonic and stir gently.

5. Garnish with fresh basil and a lemon slice – or a few whole blueberries for extra flair.

Tips:

• Want a non-alcoholic version? Skip the gin and add a splash of blueberry juice or elderflower cordial.

• For a deeper flavor, try roasting the blueberries with a little sugar and lemon zest before muddling.

• Make it party-ready by preparing a blueberry-basil syrup ahead of time – simmer, strain, chill.

Serve ice cold and save the cap from your tonic or gin bottle as a memory – perfect for your Corkframe if you're into collecting flavor moments.