Libations for All Occasions: Very Berry Pucker

I’m usually the one who hosts gatherings, be it large or small. When we want to get together, there is one drink my friends request time and time again: Very Berry Pucker.

The beauty of this recipe is that most of the ingredients are easy to stock up on, making for a cool, refreshing sipper during the hazy heat of summer here in the States. With berries at the height of demand this season, you and your shoppers can get on board with the best Mother Nature has to offer by crushing the fresh fruit right in the bowl. Or, if you’re looking for a convenient twist, freeze the berries ahead of time and substitute for ice to keep your libation chilled and more concentrated. I personally like using blackberries and blueberries to add a rich color to the glass.

A picture is worth a thousand words, so display a glamour shot of this drink next to your berry display and shoppers will stop in their tracks.

This sweet lemonade is quick and convenient. I personally like serving it in a large bowl or pitcher to make for easy replenishment throughout the night—or week—for whenever anyone is in the mood for a berry-filled beverage.

Because there is alcohol, be sure to properly label it so as to not confuse it with other non-spirited drinks! The lemonade does a great job of masking the vodka, so advise anyone you share this with to imbibe with care, and cheers to fresh produce.

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INGREDIENTS

• 6–9 oz of your favorite vodka
• 2 cans frozen pink lemonade concentrate
• 2–3 oz elderflower cordial
• 16 oz blackberries and blueberries, frozen or fresh
• 1 liter club soda
• Ice, as desired 

Time: 10 min

Servings: 6–8

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DIRECTIONS

1. Leave pink lemonade concentrate cans out to melt for about 10 minutes prior to making the drink.
2. Empty 16 oz of berries into a large punch bowl. If using fresh berries, crush them to release the juice.
3. Crack open the cans of pink lemonade concentrate and empty contents into the bowl.
4. Pour in 6 shots (about 6–9 oz, depending on the type of jigger used) of vodka, or to your liking, and about 2 shots (2–3 oz) of elderflower cordial. Then, add 1 liter of club soda. If desired, add ice for a cooler beverage.
5. Mix well and serve.