Concord grapes are known for their thick skins and intense flavor. These are the grapes used to create grape-flavored candies and sodas. They’re smaller, darker, and more flavorful than table grapes. Here, we used them to create a sweet purple purée, which becomes the base of this sparkling grape cocktail.
This seasonal fruit is the key ingredient in our Concord Chai smash.
Ingredients:
- Concord grape purée (see recipe below)
- Chai simple syrup (see recipe below)
- Sparkling Wine (such as our Blue Apron Blue Barrel Brut)
- Optional Garnishes:
- Concord grapes
- Thinly sliced limes
- Angostura bitters
To Make
In a coupe glass, combine 1 tbsp concord grape puree and 1 tsp chai simple syrup. Top with enough sparkling wine to fill the glass. If desired, add more grape puree and simple syrup to taste. Garnish as desired with grapes, sliced lime and bitters.
Concord Puree:
- 2 ½ lbs concord grapes (reserving a handful for garnish)
- 5 oz lime juice (about 5 limes)
- 1/4 cup water
Remove and discard any stems from the grapes. In a blender, combine the grapes, lime juice and water. Blend well until smooth. Strain through a mesh sieve. The texture will be like a thick fruit puree. Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container until ready to use.
Chai Simple Syrup
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 Tbsp ground chai spice*
In a small pot, combine the sugar, water, and chai spice. Heat to boiling on high. Once boiling, turn off the heat. Set aside and allow to cool slightly. Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve. Store in an airtight container until ready to use.
*Chef Tip: Chef Lili and the Test Kitchen recommend using Diaspora Chai Masala, which you can find here.
