Blueberries

Muddled blueberries add a gorgeous purple hue to cocktails along with a sweet-tart berry flavor. Drop a handful into a shaker with vodka or gin, muddle well, add lemon and simple syrup, and you’ve got a Blueberry Smash. Fresh and frozen both work — frozen actually release more juice when muddled. They pair naturally with lavender, lemon, basil, and mint. Blueberry season peaks in July and August, but frozen berries from Costco work year-round. Strain through a fine mesh if you don’t want the skins in your drink. A few whole berries make a nice garnish too.

Last modified on September 24, 2026