Elderflower and Gooseberry Vodka

• blackcurrant↗300g g
• elderflower blossoms↗20

  flowers, collected, stems discarded

• lemon zest↗few strips
• bottle of quality vodka700ml ml
• golden sugar↗350g g

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Divide the blackcurrants between two 1‑liter jars and gently press them down with a wooden spoon handle. Add the elderflower blossoms, place a few strips of lemon zest on top and pour in the vodka. Enclose the blossoms in a parchment circle and seal with the lid. Let steep for at least 48 hours or up to a week.

2. 2

   After steeping, line a sieve with kitchen paper and set it over a large bowl. Pour in the vodka, then discard the strained berries and blossoms.

3. 3

   Transfer the golden sugar to a saucepan with 350 ml water and gently heat until the sugar dissolves. Raise the heat, bring to a light boil and cook until the mixture becomes syrupy and reduces to half its volume – about 10 minutes. Cool to room temperature, then add 100 ml to the elderflower infusion. Stir well and taste, adding more until the desired sweetness is reached.

4. 4

   Bottle the vodka and store it in a cool, dark place. It will keep for years, though the flavor will diminish after about a year.