Proseco is an Italian sparkling wine. Its light on the palate and has beautiful, fruity notes. Blackberries are my favorite berry and pair very well with this light and refreshing bubbly.

by Tina Martini, The Medicine Chef  

I created this refreshing cocktail for my special yearly event, “The Midnight Chocolate Rendevous.” The menu is restricted to twelve courses and features chocolate from around the world, served in the most unusual of ways. Alla Salute!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 c fresh Blackberries
• 2 tsp Agave or sweetener of your choice
• 2 tsps fresh Lemon juice
• 1 tsp Lemon zest
• Gin, please use top quality
• Proseco, well chilled

Directions

1. Place four champagne flutes in the freezer.
2. Wash and dry the blackberries.
3. Place berries, agave, lemon juice, and lemon zest in the bowl of your food processor. Process ingredients until smooth.
4. Push finished puree through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds. Catch in a small mixing bowl.
5. Chill well.

When you are ready for service, get your mise en place together. Chilled glasses, berry/lemon puree, gin, and well chilled proseco.

1. Pour 1-2 tablespoons of the berry puree into the flutes. I like to use a wider flute for sparkling cocktails, so I generally use 2 tablespoons of the berry puree.
2. Add 1/2 ounce of gin, and top with proseco.
3. If desired, garnish with a small lemon twist, and a blackberry.

Phyto Facts

Blackberries are really purple and we should remember, when discussing phytonutrients, that anything the color of blood purifies the blood. Not only do blackberries contain anthocyanins, which strengthen the cardiovascular system, prevent age-related mental decline, and reduce inflammation, as well as reducing arthritic, and gout related pain. These berries are also potent hormone medicine, due to their high lignan content. Lignans can greatly reduce symptoms related to PMS and menopause. They also assist in balancing the chemistry in the brain, which reduces hormone related mood swings. Bioflavinoids, a group of phytonutrients, are one of the best ways to slow, and even turn back the aging clock. Proseco, and all sparkling wines also contain these youth preserving phytonutrients. Pour me a dose, quick, and let’s drink to our health! 

by Chef Tina Martini, “The Medicine Chef” @MedicineChef | Facebook Chef Martini is an experienced, well-versed television personality with a successful and proven track record. She holds a doctorate from Bastyr University in Naturopathy and a Nutrition degree from San Diego State University. She mixes cooking with nutrition, fitness and wellness!

photo credit: annieseats via photopin cc