Damson vodka

Using some of the damsons harvested from my parents garden I decided to make Hugh Fearnley-Wittingstall's recipe for damson vodka.

"This rivals sloe gin for rich, sweet, deliciousness. Make it now for drinking next Christmas (allowing yourself a taster or two on bottling, of course). Makes around 1.5 litres."

Ingredients

• 1kg damsons, washed
• 500g sugar
• 1 litre vodka

Method

• Prick the damsons with the point of a sharp knife and then transfer to a large, clean Kilner jar.
• Add the sugar and pour in the vodka. Seal and store in a cool, dark place.
• Every week or two, turn the jar on its head and then back again.
• After 6 months, strain the liquid through several layers of muslin, then bottle and seal tightly.
• Store for another 6 months but it will be better if you leave for 2 years (of course that is only if you can wait that long!)