Looking for a festive Fourth of July cocktail? This vibrant Stars and Stripes Cocktail combines fresh blueberries, raspberry liqueur, absinthe and ginger beer for a refreshing summer drink that looks as patriotic as it tastes. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, watching fireworks or celebrating with friends, this easy cocktail is made for Independence Day entertaining.

Cocktail writer James Chatto recreated this contemporary drink as part of ELLE Gourmet’s collection of internationally inspired cocktails. Named after the nickname of the U.S. women’s national soccer team, the Stars and Stripes Cocktail pairs the unexpected flavours of blueberry and absinthe with bright lemon and spicy ginger beer for a refreshing summer serve.

“This modern cocktail’s moniker is also the nickname of the U.S. women’s soccer team, the most successful women’s squad in the sport’s history. The drink, happily, is far less intense than their rivalry with our Canadian team. Refreshing and fruity, it’s built around the pleasing flavour marriage of absinthe and blueberry, sharpened by lemon and sweetened by raspberry liqueur. (Beware the brands that imitate the taste of sour candy.) How much ginger beer you add to lengthen the cocktail is a matter of taste.”

Originally developed as part of ELLE Gourmet’s collection of internationally inspired cocktails, this recipe has become a summer favourite for entertaining.

A glass with a red drink and berries in front of a red-and-blue background

Stars and Stripes Cocktail

James Chatto

Made with blueberries, raspberry liqueur, absinthe and ginger beer, the Stars and Stripes Cocktail is the perfect drink for Fourth of July celebrations, barbecues and warm-weather entertaining.

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Ingredients

5 blueberries
1 oz blueberry vodka
¼ oz absinthe
¼ oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
ice
¼ oz raspberry liqueur such as Chambord
2-3 oz ginger beer for garnish (optional)
berries or sugar cube

Instructions

In cocktail shaker, muddle blueberries, then add vodka, absinthe and lemon juice. Half-fill with ice. Shake well, then pour into Highball glass.
Carefully float raspberry liqueur overtop; finish with ginger beer. Garnish with berries (if desired).