Fresh herbs can add a lot of character to cocktails and homemade infusions, but a little technique goes a long way. Knowing how to handle the herbs, how much to use, and when to stop the infusion can help you get a cleaner, better flavor.
To get the essential oil out of mint, basil, or sage, bruise the leaves without crushing them. You can do this by placing the leaves in the palm of your hand and clapping your hands briskly once or twice. Or you can bruise the leaves with the back of a spoon or use a muddler , a bartender’s tool used like a pestle. Bruising the leaves helps release flavor without breaking them down too much.
New at this? If the recipe calls for a 750 ml bottle of liquor, cut it down to a reasonable size so that you can try it out first. Taste as you go along so that your infusion will not be too strong. Different herbs infuse at different speeds, so checking the flavor as you go can help you avoid ending up with something too sharp or overpowering.
Filter out as many stray bits as you can. Cheesecloth works great, followed up by straining again through a coffee filter. That extra step can help give your infusion a cleaner look and smoother finish.
Store your infusion in a small, air-tight, sealed container. Keep it in a cool place, and make sure the lid is tightly closed so the flavor stays fresh.
When creating your own infusions, write down the recipe. If it’s good, you’ll want to make it again! And if you’re experimenting with herbs in cocktails, notes can help you remember which combinations gave you the best flavor.
Cocktail Recipes
Apple and Sage Smash Cocktail
Bloody Mariana Cocktail
Cilantro Mojito
Cranberry Sangria
Fall Sangria
Lavender Martini
Lavender Paloma
Lavender Simple Syrup
Lemon-Thyme Martini
Luscious Lemon Sour
Mint Julep
Oregano Cobbler
Pineapple Basil Gin Cocktail
Pineapple Basil Margarita
Pomegranate & Rosemary White Sangria
Purple Basil Mojito
Strawberry Mint Mojito
Summer Fruit Sangria
The Basil North Cocktail
Vodka Tarragon Gimlet
Vodka Thyme Cocktail
Whether you’re making cocktails, mocktails, or your own infused spirits, Adams Fairacre Farms has the fresh herbs and ingredients to help you get started. Visit us in Poughkeepsie, Newburgh, Middletown, Kingston, or Wappingers Falls.
Infusion Tips by Sue Adams