Fresh blackberries turn this cocktail a deep purple-red, while mint leaves and slices of ginger float through the glass. It’s a mojito, but not the version most of us know. Traditional mojitos originated in Cuba, where rum, lime, mint and sugar were used to create a refreshing drink. This version keeps the rum and mint but replaces the lime-forward flavour with sweet berries and spicy ginger. The ginger cuts through the sweetness of the berries and stops the drink from becoming syrupy. As the blackberries are muddled, they release their juice and natural sugars, creating a richer flavour than you would get from a flavoured syrup. Ginger ale brings everything together and adds just enough fizz. Serve it in a tall glass packed with ice or frozen blackberries.

Ingredients

• Leaves from 2 sprigs fresh mint
• 15 ml fresh ginger, finely chopped
• 5 fresh blackberries
• 30 ml white rum
• 120 to 180 ml ginger ale
• Ice cubes or frozen blackberries

Method

1. Place the mint, ginger and blackberries into a tall glass.
2. Gently muddle until the berries release their juice.
3. Add the rum and stir.
4. Fill the glass with ice or frozen blackberries.
5. Top with ginger ale.
6. Stir gently and serve.