Blackberry Cordial

Ingredients:     2 cups sugar     2 pints blackberries     1 quart vodka

Combine everything in a large glass jar. Cover and place it in a dark, cool place. Stir the contents, or just turn over the jar every week or so for 2 to 8 weeks; longer is better. Eventually, strain and decant. After blackberry season, try the same approach with raspberries or Italian plums.

- Judith Hausman