Spiced Blackberry Sparkling Cider

Directions

1. In a saucepan place the blackberries, orange zest, & water and bring to a boil.
2. Add in the whole spices and boil on a low flame for 10 - 12 minutes. Halfway through, with the back of a spoon, smash the blackberries and continue to cook the mixture.
3. You want the mixture thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Once it reaches this consistency turn off the flame and set it aside to cool. When the mixture reaches room temperature add in the juice of half a lime.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove all the seeds & spices. You might have to run it through twice to get a smooth consistency. Store in an airtight container and cool for at least 4 hours.
5. To make the cider, place 2 tablespoons of the chilled blackberry mixture in your cocktail glass and top with the chilled sparkling apple cider
6. You can rim your glasses with citrus sugar to compliment the flavors in the cider.