Fresh Strawberry Thyme Bellini

Step 1

Put 1/4 pint (3 ounces) strawberries (about 3 large/6 medium/9 small) into a small pot with the cup of superfine sugar, the thyme sprigs, and 6 ounces of water. Bring to a boil. Immediately lower the heat to a simmer and cook the mixture for 10-15 minutes until the strawberries are quite soft.

Step 2

Once it is cooked, take the pot off the stove and cool the mixture for 30 minutes. Then take out the sprigs of thyme and strain the mixture into a measuring up or container. Chill it well, for at least 1 hour.

Step 3

Put the rest of the strawberries into a blender and crush them. Then strain the mixture to remove the seeds.

Step 4

Mix 1 ounce of the puree and 1 ounce of simple syrup. Top with about 4 ounces of Prosecco, other sparkling wine or a non-alcoholic alternative such as sparkling apple cider or sparkling water. If desired garnish with a half or quarter of a hulled strawberry, sliced partway up so you can slide it onto the glass. If you want to intensify the thyme aroma, rub a sprig of fresh between your fingers (to release the aroma), and put it in the glass. Although it's not as sturdy as a celery stick in a Bloody Mary and therefore can't be twirled around, it's a nice touch and adds to the festive quality of the drink.