As summer draws to an end many gardens are overrun with basil. In addition to making pesto with all that extra basil, you can infuse spirits with your herbs. Infusing is so easy! Here is a simple vodka infusion recipe that takes only 24 hours:
Tahitian Vanilla-Basil Vodka
1 Tahitian vanilla bean cut in half
10 basil leaves cut into ribbons
1 bottle of good-quality vodka (preferably organic)
Add the split vanilla bean with seeds and basil to the bottle of vodka and let it sit at room temperature for 24 hours before use. The longer the vodka sits, the stronger the flavors. Both the vanilla and basil can be adjusted by adding or removing either to balance for the flavor profile you desire. When the vodka tastes right to you, strain out the basil leaves and vanilla bean. Leave the mini seeds in for a stunning effect—otherwise, strain them out with cheesecloth.
Now that you have infused the base spirit, you want to make a cocktail with it, right? But not just any cocktail. How about a cocktail created by one of the best bartenders in the west, specializing in award-winning Garden-To-Glass cocktails?Chris Milligan, A.K.A. Santa Fe Barman, has been delighting Santa Fe locals and tourists alike at the Secreto Lounge in the Hotel St. Francis. Part historian and part entertainer, Chris is a bartender of the classic style. Not only does he craft incredible cocktails, Chris crafts personal experiences for every patron. He loves his time behind the bar, creating new drinks as well as serving up his contemporary interpretations of vintage cocktails.
Here is Chris’ Tahitian Vanilla-Basil Lemon Drop cocktail recipe that includes your vanilla-basil vodka:
Tahitian Vanilla-Basil Lemon Drop
1 1/2 oz vanilla-basil vodka
1 oz Limoncello (Italian lemon liqueur)
1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
1/2 Tahitian vanilla bean (buy online now)
basil leaves
Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass. Add ice and shake for 10-12 seconds. Shake it well! Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with 1/2 a vanilla bean and basil top.
Cocktail recipe courtesy of Chris Milligan. Visit Chris’ website, Santa Fe Barman, for more cocktail recipes.
