Sloes are the fruit of the blackthorn. A densely growing bush, packed with thorns, it’s often used in hedgerows to keep livestock in check. Making sloe gin is very much a case of life in the sloe lane. It can require quite a bit of patience but is extremely rewarding, and this is the perfect recipe. Make this delicious sloe gin recipe and enjoy a fruity alcoholic drink over the winter season.
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The Perfect Sloe Gin
500g Sloes
250g Sugar
70 ml Gin
Find a clean, airtight jar. You’ll need something that comfortably holds 1.5 litres. Pop the frozen sloes into the jar. Add the sugar. Pour in your gin.
Keep your jar in a dark place, but for the first week or so bring it out and turn the jar over a few times before replacing it. Once all the sugar has dissolved, leave it in the dark for as long as you can bear, three months at the very least.
Then strain the mixture through some muslin and into a clean bottle, and it will be ready to serve.
To make a sloe spritz
This gin is lovely on its own, or reduced and drizzled onto cakes, but is also a great cocktail ingredient.
To make a sloe fizz, simply pour 25ml of sloe gin into a champagne glass and top with prosecco.