Step 1

Put cranberries, sugar, and water in a saucepan over medium-high heat and bring to a boil.

Step 2

Once boiling, lower heat to medium low and let cook for another 10 minutes, until berries start bursting.

Step 3

Strain the juice into a heat-proof bowl, leaving the solids behind, and place bowl in fridge to cool.

Step 4

In a glass filled with ice, pour half the vodka, half the pomegranate juice, and half the lemon juice. Repeat with second glass. Pour 1 1/2 oz. cranberry simple syrup in each glass and top glasses off with soda water.

Step 5

Garnish with cranberries and pomegranate arils, if desired