Friday Night Drinks

I am currently reading a novel where the main characters frequently indulge in Sloe Gin. With the distinct lack of Blackthorn in my area I havent had the opportunity to make my own though I would love to give it a try. You will need to get your hands on some sloe berries and will require 3 months to make the below recipe so for those in the south it would be perfect to start now so that the liquer is ready for winter, for those in the north I expect you are probably indulging in Sloe Gin you prepared in Autumn! I am wondering if there is another fruit that can be used instead of sloe berries (for those of us who cant get our hands on them)- maybe someone can enlighten me? A cosy sitting room such as the one above and a divine dress like one of these Elie Saab creations would top off a perfect night. Happy Friday!

Sloe Gin
Ripe Sloe berries (from the Blackthorn bush)
Sugar
Gin
Cloves
Cinnamon
Almond Essence

Add 1 pint of sloes to jar and 110 grams of sugar. Fill with gin and add a few cloves, a small stick of cinnamon and almond essence. Seal the jar and turn several times and store in a cool, dark place for 3 months. Turn every day for the first two weeks, then once a week for 3 months.

After 3 months have passed pour off the liquer, decant in to clean containers an leave to stand for another week before enjoying.