Name: Lavender Liqueur
Total time: PLACEHOLDER
Ingredients: ¼ ounce dried lavender flowers; 1 (3-inch) strip lemon zest; 14 ounces vodka; 2 ounces recipe

Why This Recipe Works

Dried flowers are easy to work with, they are readily available online and in specialty shops, and they infuse quickly into a spirit. Since elderflower liqueur is somewhat ubiquitous, we decided to focus on more-unsung blossoms, like lavender. We found that a single strip of lemon zest balanced these floral fragrances with just a hint of fresh citrus aroma. Tasters enjoyed Lavender Liqueur as an alternative to the crème de violette typically called for in the Aviation.

Before You Begin

Be sure to use food-grade dried flowers (available online or in specialty spice shops) to make this liqueur; other types likely have been sprayed with pesticides or treated with chemicals. You will need a pint-size glass jar with a tight-fitting lid for this recipe. To make chamomile liqueur, jasmine liqueur, or rose liqueur by substituting dried chamomile flowers, jasmine flowers, or rose petals, respectively for the lavender.

Instructions

Place flowers, lemon zest, and vodka in pint-size glass jar. Cover tightly and shake to combine. Store jar in cool, dark place for 2 days, shaking mixture occasionally.

Set fine-mesh strainer in medium bowl and line with triple layer of cheesecloth. Strain vodka mixture through prepared strainer, pressing on solids to extract as much liquid as possible; discard solids. Return infused vodka to clean jar and add simple syrup. Cover and gently shake to combine. (Lavender Liqueur can be stored in cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Shake gently before using.)