It's no secret that I love a good cocktail--and crafting my own.  There's no better way to add your own special touch to a drink than to infuse your own liquor.  It is seriously so easy that I can't believe I haven't been doing this sooner! 

It is super fun to play around with tastes--spices, fruits, even chile peppers!--to get the right kiss of flavor for your next bar concoction.  Naturally, DIY-infused liquor also makes a great gift for the cocktail buff(s) in your life.  Start with a good quality alcohol and always use organic ingredients.

I love this infusion of orange peels and rosemary here because these ingredients play off the herbaceousness of the gin.  They are likewise a distinctly festive flavor perfect for the gin and tonic or martini lover.  These infused alcohols can also be enjoyed neat or with a splash of club soda so that you can enjoy the full depth of their flavor.  I typically make enough to fill a 160z mason jar (enough to enjoy, but small enough that I can try new infusions) but if you want more, simply double the recipe!

Ingredients:

Peel of one organic orange

2 springs organic rosemary

15 oz quality gin such as Hendrick's or, for a less herby taste, Amsterdam

Scrape off any of the white pith on the orange peel--this minimizes bitterness.  Then combine ingredients in a 16 oz mason jar.  Let sit for at least three days and up to two weeks, making sure that you shake it periodically.  The longer you let it sit, the stronger the infusion will be. Strain mixture through cheesecloth or strainer to remove peels and rosemary.  Store in your mason jar in a cool, dry place or the fridge if you want to keep it chilled.  Makes about 15 oz.  Enjoy!