“Fighting Joe” Hooker Blueberry Whiskey Cocktail
Photo: Ned King
A summer cocktail that celebrates the season’s blueberry bounty.
Created to celebrate the bounty of blueberries in Massachusetts’ Pioneer Valley during summertime, this blueberry whiskey cocktail mixes a high-proof rye whiskey with a smoky rhubarb amaro. It tastes like “a robust blueberry pie with rich bittersweet undertones,” says Ned King, bar manager of Gigantic Bar in Easthampton.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz. 100 proof rye whiskey (Gigantic Bar uses Rittenhouse)
- 3/4 oz. Sfumato amaro
- 3/4 oz. blueberry syrup
- 3/4 oz. fresh lemon juice
- _________________________
- Blueberry Syrup
- 500g blueberries
- 200g white sugar
- 200g water
- Tools:shaker, strainer, fine-mesh strainer
- Glass:double rocks
- Garnish:mint and blueberries
Preparation
Add all of the ingredients to a shaker with ice. Shake vigorously, then double strain into a double rocks glass over a large ice cube. Garnish.
Blueberry SyrupAdd the sugar and blueberries to a saucepan and muddle gently. Add water to the pan and place on medium/low heat, stirring constantly. Once the sugar is dissolved and the blueberries are soft and incorporated, take off the heat and let cool. Strain through a fine mesh strainer and place in a container with a lid. Will keep in a refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.