[trompette de la mort]

Hi
Each year - in order to make sloe gin - I collect sloes from blackthorn bushes/trees having dutifully awaited the first frosts as I've often read (and been advised) that this is the best time to grab them.

Does anyone know what the rationale behind this is?

I'm starting to think that it may be because the freezing/thawing action softens the flesh and therefore allows the gin & juice to mix more readily. If so would I be as well picking them quite soon (they're already sitting black & beautiful on the bushes), then freezing them in the freezer, defrosting & using them?

Or is the reasoning behind leaving them on the bush until the frosts come something to do with unlocking secret flavours?

Any feedback/knowledge would be very gratefully received!

Thanks Finn.