Black Betty
INGREDIENTS
- 1 oz Overproof Bourbon (or high-proof rye)
- 1 oz Black Spiced Rum (like Kraken or Gosling’s Black Seal)
- ¾ oz Amaro (like Averna or Montenegro)
- ½ oz Blackberry Liqueur (or muddled blackberries with simple syrup)
- ½ oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
- Garnish: Blackberries
- Garnish: Scorched rosemary sprig (optional, for smoky drama)
INSTRUCTIONS
- Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice.
- Shake hard — like a guitar solo.
- Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
- Garnish with blackberries and a lightly torched rosemary sprig for a smoky finish.
VIDEO HOW-TO
NOTES
Black Betty Cocktail – A Rock ’n’ Roll Sipper with Bite
Inspired by the gritty swagger of Ram Jam’s classic hit “Black Betty,” this cocktail is bold, unapologetic, and unforgettable. The dark spiced rum and overproof bourbon deliver a one-two punch, while blackberry liqueur and amaro add deep, brooding complexity. A hit of lemon and bitters keeps it sharp, like a riff slicing through the chorus. Garnished with blackberries and rosemary, it’s as intense and soulful as the song itself. This drink doesn’t just sing — it wails.
Flavor Profile: Rich and smoky with deep notes of molasses and blackberry, tempered by bittersweet amaro and lemon for bite. It hits your tastebuds like a power chord.
If you're curious about where the Black Betty cocktail gets its name and the story behind it, you're in for a treat! This drink has a fascinating history that goes way beyond just being a delicious mix. To dive deeper into the origins of Black Betty, check out the article "The Story of “Black Betty”: From Chain Gangs to Classic Rock" on Chronicle of Curiosity. It explores everything from its roots in chain gangs to its rise as a classic cocktail. Trust us, understanding the backstory will make sipping on your Black Betty even more enjoyable!
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