I do infusions a few times a year, typically simple things like a bourbon with spices + orange zest or a limoncello. These things take time, but are very low on prep/active time: you pretty much just put everything in a jar and let it sit for a few weeks.
A few months ago I was inspired to try out a blueberry infused bourbon (inspiration came in the form of a blueberry basil bourbon donut from Blue Star in Portland). I used dried blueberries for their concentration of flavor and sugars. I used ¼ cup of fruit per 16 oz bourbon. I usually let everything hang out together in a jar and mingle for a full week before taking my first taste test. For this infusion, I let everything commingle for a full 4 weeks. The bourbon will get a nice, dark color very very quickly – but don’t be tempted! It’s not ready until your taste buds (not your eyes) tell you it’s ready. Once you are happy with the flavor, just strain through a coffee filter and funnel into your container of choice.
For the cocktail:
2 oz blueberry infused bourbon
½ oz lemon juice
½ oz simple syrup
1 egg white
Soda or Mineral Water to finish, if desired
Combine bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup and egg white in shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for a full minute. Strain in cocktail glass, top with fizzy water if desired. Garnish with desired herb. Drink and think about summer :-)
Wearing Vivetta trousers, Everlane Tee, Oscar de la Renta earrings, and Bite lipstick.
