In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup of filtered water to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, add a handful of fresh sage leaves and steep for about 5 minutes.

Stir in 1 cup of fresh or frozen blackberries, returning the mixture to a mild simmer. Gently mash the blackberries with a wooden spoon to release their juices, creating a vibrant purple hue. Continue simmering for an additional 3-5 minutes until fragrant and the berries break down.

Remove the pan from heat and place a fine mesh strainer over a heatproof container. Carefully pour the blackberry-sage mixture through the strainer to catch the solids, pressing gently to extract as much liquid as possible. Mix in your choice of maple syrup or honey and stir until dissolved, then add 1 cup of cold water and the juice of half a lemon.

Transfer the mixture to the refrigerator and allow it to chill for at least 30 minutes.

Fill tall glasses with ice cubes, pour the chilled tea over the ice, and watch as it fills the glasses with its gorgeous purple color.

Garnish each glass with extra blackberries, fresh sage leaves, or a slice of lemon before serving.