[Uffda]

I've been making Sloe Gin for a couple of years for my brother.  I'm not keen on it because it's too sweet.  However a friend made some without sugar and it was perfect and not too bitter. The recipe I use is from the Preserving book by Lynda Brown which uses 85g sugar to 225g of sloes.  My question is - why is sugar used to make Sloe Gin.  Is it just for taste or is it necessary for the process? 

[Auntiemogs]

I think it's for the taste and texture.  I usually put in 1/4 to 1/3 bottle sugar, 1/3 sloes and shake occasionally.  I guess if it's for you, you could put in as much or as little as you like. 

[8doubles]

Sloe gin is a liqueur which i believe are all high in sugar. The gin should act as the preservative so sweeten it to your own taste . I tend to use less sugar than most recipes recommend but it`s easier  to add more than take excess out.