CHERRY BOUNCE - I learned of this popular Christmas gift to give while traveling to upper Michigan over the summer. The process starts in July, with pitting 2 cups of cherries and putting them into a mason jar. Then add 1/3 cup of sugar (I used pure cane) and then top off with a spirit of your choice. I used a high proof bourbon. Store in a cool place, and shake every so often.

The drink is sweet as you can imagine, which fits the season well. If I stuck with bourbon, I would throw in some cinnamon sticks, cloves and star anise next time. Otherwise, I think aged rum would also taste great.