Eighteenth-Century Cherry Bounce

Instructions

1. 01

   In a 1-quart jar or wide-mouthed bottle, combine the sugar and half the whiskey or Cognac. Seal and shake briefly to dissolve the sugar.

2. 02

   Add the remaining whiskey or Cognac, the cherries and either the vanilla bean and its seeds or the spices. Seal and gently turn upside-down several times.

3. 03

   Store in a cool, dark place for at least 8 weeks or up to 6 months. (The best results come after 4 months.).

4. 04

   When ready, pass through a mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth, and press on the solids to extract all of the liquid.

5. 05

   Bottle and store in a cool dark place, and use within 3 months.

6. 06

   In a 1-quart jar or wide-mouthed bottle, combine the sugar and half the whiskey or Cognac. Seal and shake briefly to dissolve the sugar. Add the remaining whiskey or Cognac, the cherries and either the vanilla bean and its seeds or the spices. Seal and gently turn upside-down several times. Store in a cool, dark place for at least 8 weeks or up to 6 months. (The best results come after 4 months.) When ready, pass through a mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth, and press on the solids to extract all of the liquid. Bottle and store in a cool dark place, and use within 3 months.