Blackberry Shrub Lemonade is a drink that can be tailored for children and grownups alike. A traditional shrub cocktail, of course, has a shot of liquor, but can be omitted for little ones so they can also say cheers to summer. If you are packing for a picnic and do not have far to go, you can even prep your cocktails in tall bottles beforehand for easier travel.
In a medium bowl, combine the blackberries and sugar and mash using a large spoon, muddler, or potato masher. Let it sit at room temperature for about 2 hours or tightly covered in the refrigerator overnight. Press the blackberry juice through a fine sieve over a bowl, really taking the time to press every bit of juice from the berries. Stir in the white balsamic vinegar, pour into a sterilized glass jar and store in the refrigerator. This should keep for up to a month.
Make the Blackberry Shrub Lemonade:
Pour 1 oz blackberry shrub syrup and 2 oz rum (omit if making a kid-friendly beverage) into a glass, top with sparking lemonade and ice. Enjoy.
Notes
Nutrition information is for one recipe of the Blackberry Shrub Syrup. Add sparkling lemonade (plus rum for grownups) as desired.Adapted from Blackberry-Rum Shrub, Saveur.