Black Currant Shrub Drinking Vinegar (Printable Version)

A vibrant, tangy-sweet drinking vinegar crafted from ripe black currants, ideal as a refreshing mixer for beverages and cocktails.

# What You'll Need:

→ Fruit

01 - 1 cup fresh or frozen black currants, rinsed and stemmed

→ Sugar

02 - 1 cup granulated sugar

→ Vinegar

03 - 1 cup apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar

# Directions:

01 - In a bowl or jar, combine black currants and sugar. Stir well, lightly mashing the berries to release juices.
02 - Cover and refrigerate for 24–48 hours, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the fruit juices are released.
03 - Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean bowl, pressing to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard solids.
04 - Pour the fruit syrup into a clean jar. Add the vinegar and stir to combine.
05 - Seal and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before using, allowing flavors to meld.
06 - Mix 1–2 tablespoons shrub with still or sparkling water, or use as a cocktail mixer. Adjust to taste.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • Rich, vibrant berry flavor with a refreshing acidic kick.
  • Versatile use in mocktails, cocktails, or simple sodas.
  • Vegan and Gluten-Free.
  • Simple cold-process method that preserves the fruit's brightness.
02 -
  • Mashing the currants thoroughly is key to releasing the juices and achieving a deep color.
  • Allowing the shrub to rest for the full 24 hours after adding vinegar is essential for the sharp flavors to meld and mellow.
  • Use a clean storage bottle or jar to maintain the shrub's shelf life.
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