1cupfresh aronia berrieschokeberries, leaves and stems removed
1cuprawturbinado sugar (see Notes)
2cupswater
Cocktail
2ouncesbourbon
¾ouncearonia berry syrup
3splashes of Angostura bitters
1splash orange bitters
Garnish: orange twist
Instructions
Make Syrup:
In a medium pot over medium-high heat, combine berries, sugar and water. Stir to dissolve sugar and bring to just a boil. Lower heat to medium-low and let berries simmer. Using the back of a wooden spoon, crush berries to release juices. Simmer for 30 to 45 minutes until the mixture is reduced by half. The berries may not all break down – that’s okay as they will still release plenty of juice.
Strain berry syrup through a fine mesh sieve over a bowl or measuring cup. Press gently with a wooden spoon to release any extra juice. Discard the juiced berries.
Transfer syrup to a small container(s). Refrigerate for up to 3 weeks or freeze for up to 6 months. Makes about 2 cups of syrup.
Make Cocktail:
Put bourbon, syrup and bitters in a cocktail shaker and stir for 2 minutes.
Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
Garnish with an orange twist.
Notes
* You can use the same amount of granulated sugar instead of raw sugar. * Syrup recipe can be doubled, tripled, etc.