These slightly floral, fizzy aperitifs are double-spiked with vodka and sparkling wine, then sweetened with berries. These vodka mixed drinks are perfect before dinner. Also check out the nonalcoholic version made with sparkling water.

Vodka
2 cups water
1 cup sugar
1 Tbsp. fresh or dried lavender buds
1 1/2 cups fresh squeezed lemon juice (8–12 lemons, depending on the size and juice content)
Ice
Fresh lavender sprigs (optional)
1 lemon, thinly sliced (optional)
1 pint fresh berries, such as blueberries or raspberries
Chilled sparkling wine or champagne

1. Place an open bottle of vodka in freezer for at least 2 hours or until very cold and syrup-like. Chill 10 to 12 tall glasses, if desired.

2. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan combine water, sugar, and lavender buds. Bring to boiling, stirring to dissolve sugar. Remove from heat. Cool rapidly by placing pan in a basin of iced water. Add lemon juice to cooled syrup. Strain to remove lavender; discard lavender.

3. Fill each chilled tall glass with ice and add 1 shot (3 tablespoons) of the cold vodka. Fill each glass about three-fourths full with lemonade syrup. Add lavender sprigs and lemon slices, if desired, and a few berries to each glass. Top each with sparkling wine. Stir the vodka drink to mix or leave as is to sip the layers. Makes 10 to 12 servings.

Nonalcoholic Version: Fill a tall chilled glass with ice. Add 1 part lemonade syrup to 2 parts chilled sparkling water.