Infusion - Savour the Flavour
Adding a hint of flavour to your favourite spirits is a great way to add variety. It’s called “infusion,” and it’s the process of introducing new flavour into your traditional spirits by steeping spice or fruit or well, whatever you want!
Makers of spirits have started adding these flavours during production, and now vanilla-flavoured rums and raspberry-flavoured vodkas sit side-by-side with perennial standards on the shelves. But infusion is also something you can do yourself, at home.
Infusing your spirits is a lengthy process, taking about two weeks, but it’s certainly not difficult. Take your choice of hard alcohol and add in a source of flavour such as a fruit or spice. Store the two ingredients together in a tightly-sealed mason jar and shake it vigorously three to five times a day.
If you prefer to buy your infused spirits off the shelf, your favourite brands certainly offer lots of great options. The most popular infused alcohol is easily vodka, with brands such as Absolut and Smirnoff populating liquor store shelves with their fruity twists on classic vodka. From the flavours you might expect, such as raspberry, citrus and vanilla to the unexpected treats like blueberry, mandarin and wild grape, there are options for every palate.
If vodka isn’t your drink of choice, rum makers have also established a variety of interesting infusions. Rum’s distinct taste lends itself to both fruit infusions – such as Bacardi’s raspberry or citrus – and more exotic flavours such as coconut, caramel or spices. Add a splash of your favourite mix or just carbonated water and enjoy the enhanced taste.
For the more adventurous spirits lover, tequila has recently expanded into the infused drink market. Sauza now offers its silver tequila in both mango and açai flavours, a tropical excursion that will definitely bring your Margarita one step closer to Mexico.
Choosing an infused bottle of spirits can make your drink a sweeter, smoother experience: the perfect substitute for a cold beer or glass of wine and the perfect complement to a relaxing, beautiful day in Nova Scotia.