Whenever I need something wholesome and sentimental, I turn to the writing of beloved Canadian author, Lucy Maud Montgomery. My first foray into her Edwardian world was through the Sullivan Entertainment adaptation of her novel, Anne of Green Gables, starring Megan Follows. At the tender age of five, I fell in love with the story, the characters, and the glorious setting of Prince Edward Island. The series of books, which follow Anne and her family throughout her life, have become oft-revisited favorites; they are charming and relatable in every phase of life.

One of the most memorable scenes of the Anne books takes place in the first novel: The red-headed orphan is granted permission by her adopted family to invite her “bosom friend,” Diana, over for tea one fall afternoon. Marilla Cuthbert, the mother-figure in the tale, tells Anne that she and her guest may enjoy raspberry cordial as a special treat. Having never tried it before, Anne grabs the wrong bottle and serves Diana red current wine instead. Consequently, Diana gets drunk and Anne gets in trouble.

The raspberry cordial referenced in the story is non-alcoholic. This one, however, is deliciously boozy. Nonetheless, it’s vibrant color and tart flavor remind me of Anne and her foibles. It’s wonderful on it’s own, or mixed in with lemonade, sparkling water, and iced tea—perfect for refreshing spring and summer cocktails.

4 cups fresh raspberries

4 cups vodka

1 cup granulate sugar

Zest of 1 orange (in strips)

1. Combine the ingredients in a large non-reactive jar.

2. Make sure the lid is screwed on tightly, then shake the jar vigorously until the sugar has dissolved.

3. Store the jar in a cool, dark place, shaking it vigorously once a day for the duration of a week.

4. After a week has passed, strain the mixture using a fine-mesh sieve, then pour the cordial into a bottle. The mixture will be good for up to a year.

Makes about 40 oz