I think most commercially flavored vodka tastes like chemicals. I don’t like it at all. I do like the concept, however.
So I decided we should just make our own flavored vodka by infusing it with fresh fruit. We made two different batches – one with lemons and limes and the other with fresh pineapple. They both turned out beautifully and couldn’t be easier.
You just need fresh fruit, vegetables, or herbs, vodka, a glass container, and time. You may be tempted to use cheap vodka, but don’t – you’ll be disappointed. Use a vodka that you don’t mind drinking. You can also use another kind of spirit, too – be creative.
Lemon Lime Vodka
Makes one 750-mL bottle
3 – 5 limes, thinly sliced
3 – 5 lemons, thinly sliced
1 bottle vodka (750 mL)
Layer the citrus fruit along the bottom of a large glass container.
Pour in vodka.
Cover and store in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks. Take a sample taste after a month and then try the spirit once a week until it reaches the appropriate flavor.
The citrus oils can be very strong tasting. You may want to filter the vodka when you bottle it.
Discard the used fruit – all the flavor has been steeped out by the vodka.
My brother and his friend enjoyed this vodka so much on ice that they drank it before I had time to make a cocktail with it.
Pineapple Vodka
Makes one 750 mL bottle
1/2 to whole fresh pineapple
1 bottle vodka (750 mL)
Peel and dice the pineapple. You can use one-half to a whole pineapple.
Arrange in the bottom of a glass container.
Pour vodka on top.
Cover and store in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks. Take a sample taste after a month and then try the spirit once a week until it reaches the appropriate flavor.
Once you are ready to bottle, discard the used fruit.
New Orleans is hosting Tales of the Cocktail festival this weekend. I wish I was there. Instead, I made a cocktail like something I might sip there.
Tales of the Pineapple
Makes 1 drink
2 oz pineapple vodka
2 oz spiced rum
2 oz pineapple juice
2 oz mango nectar or juice
2 oz orange juice
Combine all ingredients in an ice-filled shaker. Shake well.
Serve over crushed ice with a pineapple slice garnish. Goes well with sunshine and good company.
