Description

INTRODUCTION

Infusion is an easy method of making a wide variety of liqueurs. Many of the world's most famous liqueurs are made using this method. Like Angostura bitters, which are also an infusion, there are often closely guarded formulas behind liqueurs, involving an amazing array of herbs and spices.

Despite the secrecy, though, liqueurs can be easily made in your home distillery. Don't be intimidated by long lists of ingredients; if you've been making bitters or gin using these actual "botanicals" rather than flavorings, you already have a good start. Infusions are made by soaking, or infusing, various ingredients in base liqueur, often vodka.

Infusion times can be anywhere from a couple of days to many weeks. Generally, the herbs and spices are infused and then strained out of the liquid. By definition, liqueurs are sweetened; usually, this is done after the botanicals have been infused.

Liqueurs may be sweetened with sugar, sugar syrup, honey, or even agave syrup. Here are some recipes for popular liqueurs to get you started.