Step 1

Place blackberries, water, , cinnamon, bay leaf , cloves and peppercorns in a saucepan. Simmer gently for 30 minutes, stirring often and mashing the berries.

Step 2

Remove from heat and strain through cheesecloth without squeezing. The yield will be about 4 cups of blackberry juice. Stir in brown sugar while the liquid is still warm until sugar dissolves.

Step 3

Let cool completely. Stir in brandy.

Step 4

Sterilize jars by boiling the jars and lids for 10 minutes. Remove from water. Pour cordial into sterilized pint canning jars, screw on lids and store in cool, dark place for at least two weeks before serving.