In a blender or food processor, combine the blueberries and vinegar and puree until very smooth.

Combine the puree with sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the fresh or dried bay leaf to the pot and bring to a simmer—stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely. Taste the mixture until you achieve the strength of herb flavor you prefer and adjust for sweetness, if needed. This can take anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes.

Remove the mixture from the heat, strain through a fine-mesh sieve and allow to cool.

Once cooled, transfer the shrub to a glass jar or container and store in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Mix 2 to 3 tablespoons of shrub mix with 8 ounces of cold Topo Chico over a few ice cubes for a refreshing homemade soda. Make a delicious cocktail by adding gin or vodka to the soda mix.