Step 1

Divide 12 to 14 chopped cherries and 4 tablespoons sugar between two glasses.

Step 2

Add 2 lime wedges to each, (and mint if using) and, with a muddler, start crushing the fruit with the sugar, until it becomes syrupy. Do this slowly and take your time. It's the base of the drink.

Step 3

Add ice to almost fill the glass, and then pour about 2 ounces of vodka into each glass.

Step 4

Stir, decorate with a mint sprig or lime wedge, and serve.