Redcurrant Bright Windows

Redcurrants are tart enough to make a small handful count. Press them gently, strain out the seeds if you like, and let orange juice supply the sweeter part of the drink. The color is lovely, but the sharper berry finish is what makes this combination worth making. Frozen redcurrants work once thawed. Taste the orange juice before you start; if it's particularly sour, a little less redcurrant may give you a more comfortable balance.

Ingredients

• 5 oz Sparkling water
• 2 tbsp Redcurrants, stalks removed
• 2 oz Orange juice

Make it

1. Prepare the fruit and herbs as listed. Mash soft fruit to release juice; lightly press herbs or thin ginger slices without shredding them.
2. Add the still juices and stir. Strain out seeds, skins or herb pieces if you prefer a smoother texture.
3. Pour in the chilled sparkling water slowly and stir once. Serve immediately, with ice if you like.

Benefits

Orange · a little vitamin C

You get a small vitamin C contribution from orange in the redcurrant mixture, supporting normal immune function alongside a familiar sweet-tart citrus flavor.

A sparkling setting for redcurrant

Pairing redcurrant with orange puts a bright, tart berry note into a fizzy glass, with bubbles making the texture part of the pleasure.