Mr Elephant Presents

Courtesy of the Liz and George (Yorkshire)

Sloes are the fruit of the blackthorne tree and can be found in almost all country hedge rows. In autumn sloe bushes can be recognised by their long sharp thorns and small dark blue skinned fruit. They are very similar to damsons. They are a wild fruit and adults and children can have lost of fun gathering them. Beware though they have long sharp thorns. Thick gloves are a good idea.

To make 1 lt of sloe gin you need;

1 kg sloes

200 gm castor sugar

1 lt gin

Wash sloes and throw away any damaged or extra soft fruit, then prick each sloe with a sharp knife. Sterilise a large glass container, put the sloes in the jar and add the sugar and the gin. Shake the jar daily for the first 3 to 4 weeks then store in a cool place for a further 3 to 4 months, shaking occasionally. After 4 months pour through a strainer lined with muslin and then pour into bottles.

Leave if you can in the bottles a further 2 months or longer if possible as the taste improves up to about 10 months, then drink and enjoy.

This recipe is for a rather dry taste so if you prefer something sweeter just add more sugar.

This is uncles George’s special recipe and I accept no responsibility for drunkardness.

Love

Uncle George