blackberry & mint vodka

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Enough of this food talk. Yes, the blackberries are in season and as gorgeous as ever....and normally I would go on a riff about blackberry jam, pancakes, smoothies and such, but let's explore booze for a change....more specifically, vodka, which happens to be a great spirit to infuse with other ingredients such as citrus, vanilla, nuts and chilies. This particular vodka is dead simple to make and the deep, rich berry sweetness combined with the freshness of the mint make for the foundation of a truly delicious and refreshing summer cocktail.

Blackberry & Mint Vodka

1 26 oz bottle of decent vodka- emptied into a jug
1 clean, empty 750 ml wine bottle
2 cups of fresh mint, cleaned
enough fresh blackberries to fill up both bottles 3/4 full

Fill both bottles with blackberries until 3/4 full. Next add the mint (1 cup per bottle). Divide the vodka equally between the 2 bottles. Seal both with a cork or cap. Turn upside down, then right side up. Store in fridge for 1 week. Serve in a tall glass over ice with a good splash of Pellegrino. Garnish with a wedge of lime and a sprig of fresh mint. Cheers to summer.