Summertimes favorites cocktails

When I’m not behind the camera or in front of the computer, I love to indulge in one of my tastier pastimes: infusing liquers. Last year I gathered ten girlfriends to make flavorful batches of vodka, rum and tequila. Everyone brought an herb for infusion, a fruit or a vegetable. Ranging from watermelon vodka to strawberry tequila, we were able to divide all the flavors into small bottles so everyone got a taste.

For our 100 year studio party I made up a big batch of lavender and basil/sage vodka that we mixed in with ice cold lemonade. It was a big hit! Curiously, the lavender cocktails were an even bigger hit with the men.

To make these tasty drinks at home, follow these simple recipes:

Basil~Sage Liqueur
Decant the spirits (750-ml) into a clean 2 quart glass container with a tight fitting lid. Add 1 cup lightly packed basil and sage leaves. Allow the spirits to infuse away from direct sunlight and intense heat for 24 hours.

When you’re satisified with the intensity of the flavor, strain the liqueur through a coffee filter. Discard the basil and sage.
Age the liqueur for 1 week away from light and heat.

Lavender Liqueur
insert 3 tbsp lavender buds into the 750-ml bottle. Let this liqueur age for one month.

Mix with homemade lemonade for a refreshing summertime cocktail. Cheers!

PS these recipes come from my favorite recipe book Infused: 100+ Recipes for Infused Liqueurs and Cocktails