Wild Black Raspberry Martini

I try to take a walk every day after work to get some fresh air and just sort out my thoughts.  It is my time to be alone, my time to process what has gone on that day and my time to cool down.  If it is an especially trying day at work however I need just a bit more than a walk at times.

Sometimes I hear the call of a martini and when a martini calls to me I always listen.  Especially after a crazy day at work when I need something refreshing and a little more exotic than wine.

No, I don't just go out to a bar and order one.  I am the type of person that enjoys making my own martini with certain flavors I am in the mood for on that day.  I had picked a few black raspberries on one of these alone time walks and I thought that they might just be the perfect addition to a refreshing cocktail.

Black raspberries, drunken with gin, made fragrant with lavender and sweetened with a touch of honey.  It was perfect, so beautiful and refreshing.  Bye bye stress...what crazy work day?

Wild Black Raspberry Martini
(Gin with Black Raspberries, Lavender and a touch of Honey)
Makes 1


6 ice cubes
4 oz gin
1 oz lemon juice
2 Tbsp black raspberry puree
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 1/2 oz honey lavender syrup*
lavender flowers for garnish (optional)


In a martini shaker add the ice, gin, lemon juice, honey lavender syrup, and black raspberry puree and place top on shaker. Shake until well blended. Remove glass from freezer and pour the drink into the glass through a strainer, and serve!

*Honey Lavender Syrup:

1/4 cup water
1/4 cup local honey

2 Tbsp dried lavander

Heat water until boiling, remove from heat and whisk in agave nectar and lavander, until nectar is dissolved. Chill well before using in drinks.