Aromatic Gooseberry Infusion

Sort through the gooseberries, discarding any spoiled berries and removing the stems. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry. Also rinse the cherry and black currant leaves with water.

Layer the gooseberries and aromatic leaves in a pot: start with a layer of berries, then add a few leaves. Continue alternating the ingredients until they are all used up.

For the syrup, combine the sugar and water. Set the mixture over low heat and warm, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.

Pour the hot syrup over the gooseberries. Bring to a boil and simmer over medium heat for 20 minutes.

Remove the pot from the heat and let the berry mixture cool completely. Do not pour the vodka into a hot mixture.

Transfer the gooseberries along with the syrup and leaves into a clean glass jar. Pour in the vodka and seal the container tightly.

Store the jar in a dark place for 30–40 days. During this time, the drink will develop a pronounced berry flavor and leaf aroma.