Sloe Gin

Wash the sloes and either freeze and thaw, or prick- individually with a needle or sloe thorn or by rolling on a sheet of plywood bristling with panel pins

Add half the sloes to each of two empty 700ml gin bottles

Warm gin in a jug- microwave for 3 minutes- 4 minutes for a low-powered microwave. Add sugar, stir until dissolved.

Fill bottles with the gin/sugar mixture. Add a teaspoon of almond essence.

Put in a dark cool place and turn weekly for 3-6 months.

Strain through a muslin-lined sieve or cotton-wool lined funnel.

Store in a dark place to preserve the gorgeous ruby colour.

Drink neat, or topped up with gin and/or tonic.