reasons to be cheerful - a bittersweet bombshell

Sometimes, after a long day at work, a girl just needs a drink. I never say no to a Tom Collins, but was inspired by its refreshing flavours to invent the following, and my resident mixologist is always happy to oblige.

bette marie

1.5 oz vodka

0.5 oz cherry brandy

0.5 oz sugar syrup

1.5 oz lemon juice

soda water

Build on ice, in a lovely glass, stir and top with the soda water.

Adjust the measures to suit whether you prefer it bitter or sweet.

PS. Maybe you'd like to try a Bombay Bette, switching gin instead of vodka...