As the leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange and gold, and the brisk autumn breeze sets in, there’s no better way to embrace the season’s charm than with a delightful autumn berry cocktail. Herefordshire, nestled in the heart of the UK, is renowned for its bountiful orchards and berry-laden hedgerows. In this picturesque county, we’re fortunate to have an abundance of locally sourced ingredients that make for the perfect warming autumn cocktails. So, let’s raise a glass to the season with our favourite Herefordshire-inspired berry cocktails.
1. Herefordshire Bramble Bliss
– 50ml Herefordshire gin
– 25ml blackberry liqueur
– 25ml fresh lemon juice
– 15ml simple syrup
– Fresh blackberries and a lemon twist for garnish
The Bramble Bliss pays homage to Herefordshire’s wild blackberries. Start by muddling a few blackberries in a shaker. Add gin, blackberry liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup, then shake with ice. Strain into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice, and garnish with fresh blackberries and a lemon twist. It’s a burst of sweet and tart flavours with a hint of local flair.
2. Orchard Harvest Punch
– 200ml Herefordshire apple brandy
– 100ml Herefordshire cider
– 50ml cranberry juice
– 25ml orange liqueur
– Slices of apple and cranberries for garnish
The Orchard Harvest Punch celebrates the county’s apple orchards. In a pitcher, combine apple brandy, cider, cranberry juice and orange liqueur. Stir well and serve over ice. Garnish with apple slices and a few floating cranberries. This cocktail embodies the essence of Herefordshire’s apple-rich heritage.
3. Herefordshire Hot Toddy
– 50ml Herefordshire whisky
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 25ml fresh lemon juice
– 150ml hot water
– A cinnamon stick and lemon slice for garnish
When the autumn chill sets in a Herefordshire Hot Toddy offers the ultimate warmth. In a heatproof glass, mix whisky, honey and lemon juice. Pour hot water over the mixture and stir until the honey dissolves. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a slice of lemon. It’s the perfect remedy for a brisk autumn evening.
4. Sloe Gin Fizz
– 50ml Herefordshire sloe gin
– 25ml fresh lemon juice
– 15ml simple syrup
– Soda water
– Fresh sloe berries for garnish
Herefordshire’s hedgerows are filled with sloe berries, making this Sloe Gin Fizz a local favourite. In a shaker, combine sloe gin, lemon juice and simple syrup. Shake with ice and strain into a tall glass filled with ice. Top up with soda water and garnish with fresh sloe berries. It’s a delightful effervescent drink with a local twist.
5. Berry Blush Cider Sangria
– 250ml Herefordshire berry cider
– 100ml Herefordshire rosé wine
– 50ml blackcurrant liqueur
– Slices of orange, apple and blackberries for garnish
The Berry Blush Cider Sangria combines the best of local berries and cider. In a pitcher, combine berry cider, rosé wine and blackcurrant liqueur. Stir in slices of orange, apple, and a handful of blackberries. Chill for an hour before serving over ice. It’s a refreshing and fruity concoction with a Herefordshire twist.
These autumn berry cocktails are a delightful way to celebrate the season’s flavours and the abundance of local produce. Whether you’re sipping a Bramble Bliss or enjoying a Hot Toddy by the fireplace, these drinks capture the essence of Herefordshire’s natural beauty and rich culinary heritage. So, gather your friends and family and toast to the beauty of autumn in Herefordshire.
