Fruit & Herb Drink

In Tuscany, they mix fruits and herbs with sparkiing wine. This is my non-acoholic version which uses a fresh raw fruit syrup and raw honey.

Refreshing!

2 cups fresh or frozen juicy fruit (all one type or mixed)
cold water
1 heaping tablespoons sweetener (more or less as needed to taste)
5 springs fresh basil or other fresh herb (mint, thyme...), plus more for garnish
1 bottle sparkling water (25.3 fluid ounces/750 ml)

1. Place the fruit in a 2-cup measuring cup and cover with water to fill. Then place both fruit and water, along with sweetener and basil into a large pitcher.
2. Crush with a wooden spoon until is makes a rough mash.
3. Allow the mixture to sit until the fruit releases it's juices (a few hours).
4. Just before serving, strain the juice from the fruit mixture.
5. Place desired amount in glass and fill with ice and sparkling water.
6. Garnish with more of the herb you used in the mixture.