You've worked hard this week, you deserve a drink - or two! So kick back, relax and enjoy this double feature Cocktail Friday.The Simplifiers love DIY projects...so why not make your own liquor or fortified wine? (with all that oodles and ooldles of free-time, right? Sing it, sista.) This is a delightful recipe for homemade sweet red vermouth with a deep fruit flavor and a high, spicy note from pink peppercorns. It can be enjoyed alone as an aperitif, or you can use it as a mixer for Martinis, Manhattans or this variation of a Negroni called The Dark Knight, provided below.Did you know that vermouths were invented by the Italians in the 18^th century as a healing tonic? Well then, we suggest you drink to your health!Housemade VermouthCourtesy of Michael Cecconi, head bartender at Two Sisters Bar and Books

• 1 qt. balsamic vinegar
• 2 c. dried cherries
• 1/2 c. pink peppercorns
• 1-1/2 c. brown sugar
• 2 bottles red wine (an inexpensive and light, fruity wine works best)

1. Combine balsamic, dried cherries, and peppercorns and let rest overnight (if you have the time, if not, skip to next step).
2. Add that to brown sugar in pot and bring to boil for 20 minutes.
3. Blend with immersion blender, then separate out solids with fine mesh strainer.
4. Double the volume with an equal amount of red wine. Refrigerate.

The Dark Knight

Courtesy of Michael Cecconi, head bartender at Two Sisters Bar and Books

• 1 oz gin (such as St. George Dry Rye)
• 1 oz balsamic-cherry vermouth
• 1/2 oz Campari
• 1/2 oz Apero
• orange twist garnish

Source: Punk Domestics, Michael Cecconi, head bartender at Two Sisters Bar and Books.