Place the blackberries in a bowl with a lid, sprinkle with sugar and toss gently to distribute the sugar evenly.

Cover and let rest about 4 to 6 hours to macerate the fruit.

Place the lemon rind, pepper and the berries (along with their juice) in a bottle or jar and fill with tequila.

Place in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks before refrigerating.

Berries and lemon rind can be left in without adversely affecting the flavor, but the pepper should be removed if the infusion is going to be stored longer than 2 to 3 weeks.