Infused Vodka for New Year's Eve

The hubby loves the flavor of black licorice and enjoys sipping on Absinthe.  I thought it would be fun to make black licorice infused vodka for martini's on New Years Eve. 

Infusing spirits is so much fun! Its a great way to experiment with your own personal tastes.  The concept is easy, just combine a favorite flavor into a base liquor to create a custom spirit. 



Here are a few steps you can follow:

1. Choose your spirit:

Your base spirit will set the foundation for a good infusion. Choosing a decent spirit that is smooth and clean will allow the added flavors to shine.
 
2. Choose your flavors:

Herbs, spices and fruits are most comonly used for infusions. Use your imagination to create some wonderful combinations, there are so many choices out there.

3. The Beginning:

The process itself is very easy. Choose a clean, air-tight jar: I like to use drink dispensers as they are nice to look at, quart sized mason jars will work as well.
 
4. Infusion Time:

You will want to store your infusion in a cool, dark place and shake or stir it 3-5 times a day for the duration of the infusion. On average the ingredients should stay in the liquor for 3-5 days. Some of your more intense flavors will only need 3 days, less intense flavors should stay in the jar for a full week or more.  Taste every few days to get the flavor you are looking for.
 
5. The Finish:

Once your infusion has reached it's peak in flavor you'll need to take the flavoring ingredients out of the jar. Use a fine strainer or paper coffee filter to strain the vodka into another clean jar.
 
ENJOY!