Black Currant Gin Recipe

An easy homemade black currant gin recipe that makes the most of these delicious summer berries.

a glass of homemade infused gin with black currants.

Flavorful homemade black currant gin - a delightful blend of handpicked black currants and quality gin. Follow our simple recipe and create your perfect cocktail at home.

Check out more homemade gin mixtures: Gooseberry Gin, Elderflower Gin, or Rhubarb and Ginger Gin. Or try some cocktails: Mojito with Mint or Elderflower Cocktail.

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What are black currants?
Recipe ingredients
How to make black currant gin?
Expert Tips
Recipe FAQ
How to store it?
How to serve infused gin?
More black currant recipes
Black Currant Gin Recipe

What are black currants?

Small, dark purple or black-colored berries that grow on shrubs belonging to the Ribes genus. They are rich in flavor and have a sweet-tart taste, often described as a combination of sweet and slightly bitter and sour notes.
They are also packed with nutrients, particularly vitamin C and antioxidants.
They are used for making jams, jellies, desserts, and beverages like black currant gin.
If you have a glut of them in the garden, make our Black Currant Jelly or Black Currant Jam, Black Currant Freezer Jam, Black Currant Cordial, or Crème de Cassis.

Recipe ingredients

bowls with black currants and sugar and a bottle of gin.

Gin: Choose an affordable, basic drink, as the rich botanical notes of an expensive one might get overshadowed. The flavor of the berries will take center stage, making a regular bottle of London Dry Gin (or similar) a perfect choice for this concoction.
Black currants: You will need 300 g/ 10.5 oz or about 2 cups of fresh berries.
Granulated sugar: I prefer to use only 150 g/ 5.5 oz/ ¾ cup sugar. However, if you like the infusion to be sweeter, add up to 200 g/ 7 oz/ 2 cups of sugar.
Jar: 1-liter jar (or larger) with a lid.

How to make black currant gin?

Jar: Clean and sterilize the jar.
Berries: Remove their stems or leaves. Rinse them in a sieve and gently pat them dry with paper towels. Set them aside.
Combine: Add the sugar to the jar and pour the alcohol on top. Stir well until the sugar dissolves. Add the currants and stir gently. Seal the jar (1,2).

collage of two pictures of stirring gin and sugar in a jar and adding black currants.

Let steep for at least 3 weeks and up to 6 for a stronger flavor. Keep the jar in a dark, cool place and shake the contents every 2-3 days or so (3).

one tall jar full with infused black currant gin after steeping.

Sieve through a fine mesh sieve lined with cloth or muslin to catch all of the debris that might be in the liquid. Discard the berries.
Transfer the beverage to a clean bottle. You can use the empty gin bottle, but you will have an extra small glass of gin that you will not fit in.

Expert Tips

Pick fresh, ripe black currants for the best flavor infusion. Look for berries that are plump, dark purple, or black in color and free from any mold or signs of spoilage.
Taste testing: As the infusion progresses, periodically taste to check the flavor. If you're happy with the intensity, strain out the fruit to avoid over-infusing and preventing a bitter taste.

Recipe FAQ

What does black currant gin taste like?

It's sweet and tangy, like fresh, ripe berries. It combines these fruity tastes with the earthy essence of juniper from the gin.

What type of gin should I use for the infusion?

A basic sort like London Dry Gin works well. Avoid expensive gins with complex botanicals, as the black currant flavor may overpower those subtleties.

Can I use frozen berries?

Sure. Thaw and drain them well before using.

How long does the infusion process take?

3 to 6 weeks. You can adjust the infusion time based on your taste preference.

two glasses of blackcurrant gin with ice and lemon balm.

How to store it?

The shelf life can vary depending on how it's prepared and stored. Generally, homemade black currant gin should last for several months to a year if stored properly. The high alcohol content acts as a preservative, helping to extend the shelf life.
Storage: Store it in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations. A pantry or a liquor cabinet is ideal.
Container: Make sure to store the infused gin in an airtight container or bottle to prevent oxidation and maintain its flavor.
Taste and smell: The flavor and aroma may change or weaken over time. If it starts to smell off or has an unpleasant taste, it's best to discard it.

How to serve infused gin?

On the rocks: The ice will slightly dilute it, making it more refreshing while preserving its fruity flavors.
Add a splash of tonic water for a simple and classic gin and tonic.
Make a fruity cocktail: Combine it with lemonade, soda, or ginger ale for a fruity and fizzy drink. Garnish with fresh berries, mint, lemon balm, or a slice of lemon for an extra touch.
As a Martini: Combine it with a splash of dry vermouth and garnish with a twist of lemon.
In Sangria: Add some blackcurrant gin to a pitcher of sangria. Mix it with red wine, orange juice, sugar to taste, and sliced fruits. Let it chill for a few hours before serving.
Mix it with sparkling water if you prefer a lighter and refreshing drink.
In desserts: Drizzle it over fruit salads, use it to soak cake layers, or make a sorbet.

one glass with red gin infused with black currants and served on rocks.

More black currant recipes

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