Marionberry Smash cocktail recipe

June 22, 12:26 AMPortland Drinks ExaminerIvy Hover

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Marionberries, juicy treasures of Oregon's Willamette Valley

No fruit captures the essence of Oregon summer quite like Marionberries. Simultaneously sweet and slightly tart, these oversized, deep purple beauties are a treasure to Oregonians; and anyone else who has tasted this alluring blackberry variety.

30 million pounds of Marionberries are grown in Oregon annually, but they are only available from July to August so keep your eyes peeled at upcoming farmers' markets. If you live outside of the Pacific Northwest, look for frozen Marionberries in your grocery store or you may substitute blackberries or even raspberries if needed. It's not the same as fresh, but sometimes you just have to do the best you can.

This vibrant-hued, summer cocktail falls somewhere near a Mint Julep and the Mojito, pairing Marionberries with refreshing mint and crisp, clear vodka. There are many vodkas distilled in Oregon, see right sidebar, under "Locally produced spirits" for suggestions.

Marionberry Smash Cocktail

Ingredients:

• 3 fresh Marionberries
• 10 large, fresh mint leaves (plus additional sprig for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1.5 ounces vodka
• club soda

Directions:

Muddle Marionberries, mint leaves and sugar in the bottle of an old fashioned glass, the sugar crystals will tear the leaves and help release the mint oils. Fill glass with crushed ice and add vodka. Top with club soda and stir gently. Garnish with mint sprig.

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Make your own simple and refreshing fruit infused water
RedRum Tahitian Breeze cocktail recipe
Easy and inexpensive homemade Sangria recipe
Budget-friendly Oregon Pinot Noirs priced at $25 and less
ABCs of Oregon Spirits