Blackberry Limeade

In a medium bowl, combine blackberries and sugar. Let stand for 30 minutes.

In the container of a blender, blend blackberry mixture until smooth. Strain mixture through a fine-mesh sieve, discarding solids.

In a gallon-size pitcher, stir together 1½ cups Lime Simple Syrup, sparkling water, and lime juice. Add blackberry mixture, stirring to combine. Taste, and add remaining ¼ cup Lime Simple Syrup, if desired. Serve over ice. Garnish with lime slices and blackberries, if desired.

In a medium saucepan, bring 1½ cups water, sugar, and zest to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low; simmer, stirring constantly, until sugar is dissolved, 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat, and let cool completely.

Strain mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into an airtight container. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks.