Paul Kushner
The Smoking Blackberry Sage Margarita is a bold twist on the classic margarita that combines rich flavor with eye-catching presentation. Fresh blackberries bring a tart sweetness, while sage adds an herbal depth that makes the drink stand out. A touch of maple syrup smooths the edges and balances the bold flavor of silver tequila, while lemon juice provides a crisp, tangy finish. What makes this margarita especially memorable is the garnish: a smoking dried sage sprig or a small cube of dry ice. The result is a cocktail that feels festive, dramatic, and perfect for special gatherings or Halloween celebrations.
This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy
Tasting Notes
The Smoking Blackberry Sage Margarita is a smoky, herbal twist on a classic. Fresh blackberries add a deep fruit sweetness, while sage lends an earthy, aromatic balance. Lemon juice brightens the mix with crisp acidity, and a touch of maple syrup smooths everything with natural sweetness. The silver tequila ties it all together, providing warmth and structure. When finished with a smoldering sage leaf, the cocktail releases a gentle, aromatic smoke that adds both depth and visual drama. Each sip combines sweet, tart, and herbal flavors for a perfectly balanced drink that’s rich, refreshing, and hauntingly memorable.
Equipment and Glassware
To make the Smoking Blackberry Sage Margarita, you’ll need a cocktail shaker for mixing and chilling the ingredients. A muddler is essential for crushing the blackberries and sage leaves, releasing their natural oils and juice. Use a jigger to measure accurately, keeping the balance of citrus, sweetness, and smoke precise. A fine mesh strainer ensures a smooth texture free of pulp or seeds. Serve in a rocks glass or short tumbler for the best presentation. For the smoky garnish, a lighter or culinary torch is useful to gently burn the dried sage leaves before serving.
Ingredients
- 2 oz silver tequila
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 0.25 oz maple syrup
- 5 fresh sage leaves
- 8 medium blackberries
- 1 dash orange bitters
- Blackberries and Dried sage leaves for garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle the blackberries and fresh sage leaves together until they are well broken down and fragrant.
- Add the silver tequila, lemon juice, orange bitters, and maple syrup to the shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously to blend the ingredients and chill the mixture.
- If using dry ice, place a small cube in the glass and pour the mixture over it. If using regular ice, fill the glass with ice and strain the mixture into the glass.
- For an added smoky effect, light the tip of a dried sage leaf on fire just before serving and allow the smoke to infuse the drink.
- Garnish with a few fresh blackberries and the smoldering sage leaf.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Smoking Blackberry Sage Margarita!
Pro Tips
- Use fresh blackberries for better flavor and color.
- Muddle sage gently to avoid bitterness.
- Shake hard to blend fruit and herbs thoroughly.
- Maple syrup adds smooth sweetness—avoid overpouring.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for crisp acidity.
- For a smoky finish, burn the sage just before serving.
- Avoid inhaling the smoke directly—it’s for aroma, not taste.
- Add a small cube of dry ice only for visual effect, not flavor.
When to Serve
The Smoking Blackberry Sage Margarita is perfect for Halloween parties, fall evenings, or cozy gatherings by the fire. Its deep color, herbal aroma, and dramatic presentation make it a showpiece cocktail that draws attention. Serve it before dinner to set the mood, or as the centerpiece of a Halloween menu. The smoky garnish adds a theatrical element that fits perfectly with spooky or autumn-themed celebrations. With its rich flavor and striking look, it’s a seasonal favorite that combines rustic comfort with bar-style creativity.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Tequila: Espolòn Blanco, Herradura Silver, or Don Julio Blanco for clean agave character.
- Maple Syrup: Crown Maple or Runamok for smooth, natural sweetness.
- Bitters: Angostura Orange or Fee Brothers for bright citrus spice.
Similar Cocktails
- Dead Man’s Potion
- Spooky Halloween Margarita
- Blackberry Sage Margarita
- Pomelo Spritz
- Lychee Sunrise Spritz
Ingredients
- 2 oz silver tequila
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 0.25 oz maple syrup
- 5 fresh sage leaves
- 8 medium blackberries
- 1 dash orange bitters
- Blackberries and Dried sage leaves for garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle the blackberries and fresh sage leaves together until they are well broken down and fragrant.
- Add the silver tequila, lemon juice, orange bitters, and maple syrup to the shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously to blend the ingredients and chill the mixture.
- If using dry ice, place a small cube in the glass and pour the mixture over it. If using regular ice, fill the glass with ice and strain the mixture into the glass.
- For an added smoky effect, light the tip of a dried sage leaf on fire just before serving and allow the smoke to infuse the drink.
- Garnish with a few fresh blackberries and the smoldering sage leaf.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Smoking Blackberry Sage Margarita!
Notes
- Use caution when handling dry ice and burning sage. Ensure that the dry ice is food-grade and that the sage is extinguished before consuming.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup to suit your taste.
- For a more intense blackberry flavor, let the muddled mixture sit for a minute before adding the other ingredients.
- Serve in a chilled glass to enhance the refreshing quality of the cocktail.
