I felt inspired to make damson vodka as a Christmas gift but  was distressed to find it needed 3 months before it was ready for consumption. Grrrrr!

If you felt inspired too, worry ye not, after a little research I found that if you’re using just a litre or two of vodka there are other fruits/flavours that work in a fraction of the time.

I went for 2 different flavours raspberry and lemon but you could try apple, chilli, vanilla or chocolate.

Here’s a recipe for making with 1ltr of vodka

If using fruits use 1-3 depending on size or if you’re going for berries 2-4 big handfuls.

Wash a slice fruits. Use whole berries but bruise them slightly.

Put the fruit in a clean glass airtight container and top up with your favourite vodka. Ikea do a great 1.7ltr container which is the perfect size (and cheap).

Leave somewhere cool and away from direct sunlight. Shake every couple of days.

How do you know when your flavored vodka is ready? Taste test it. I’ve been tasting mine every couple days (and probably fast tracking my way to joining AA). Most flavours infuse within a week or two. Citrus fruits infuse more quickly and I strained mine off after just a couple of days before it got too bitter.

Once you’ve achieved the desired potency, strain through a wire-mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth and then pour into your chosen bottles.

I found some fab 500ml bottles at goodlifehomebrew for £1.55

Like it sweet?

You can sweeten your vodka by adding a simple sugar syrup, which makes the consistency nice and thick.

Mix 2 cups of sugar and 2 cups of water together over low heat for about 30 minutes or until the sugar is fully dissolved, taking care not to boil the sugar and water. Cool the syrup  to room temperature before mixing with your flavoured vodka.

Add it gradually to create the desired sweetness.

Sit back and enjoy!