Tag: Northside Distillery

Infused Vodka – A Special Gift to Give (and receive!)

It is officially mid-December!  Only 10 days left until Christmas!  Are you ready… or are you still looking for gifts for some hard to shop for folks? 

I’ve got a great gift idea for you – simple, thoughtful, and easily customizable!

Infused Vodka! 

All you need is a vodka (your brand of choice) and at least one flavor component – but get creative and make it personal! 

I’m going to share a few of my favorite flavor combos with you.  And it really is super easy.  You can infuse one large batch and then decant into individual bottles or jars to gift.  Or you can infuse in the same container that you’ll be using to gift – all you’ll need is a bow and a gift tag. 

Infused Vodka Suggestions-

  1. Apple, Cinnamon Stick, Candied Ginger
  2. Orange, Clove, Cardamom Pods, Star Anise
  3. Dried Cranberries, Orange Peel, Lemon Peel
  4. Rosemary and/or Lavender
  5. Green Tea and Honey

Now, let’s get a little wild.  You can infuse any liquor you like.  Some will be more successful than others, and I suggest starting with vodka because of its neutral flavor profile.  Silver Rum is another spirit that is incredibly versatile when it comes to infusions, but specifically lends itself to fruity flavors beautifully. 

Infused Rum Suggestions-

  1. Dried Mango and Coconut
  2. Lime Peel
  3. Pineapple and Ginger

A couple more tips… if you are using fresh ingredients, keep your infusion refrigerated!  I try to use dried ingredients more than fresh so that the infusions stay shelf stable.  Also, keep in mind that the longer the infusion sits the stronger it will become, and most of these need to infuse at least 4-5 days before they are ready to use.  I like to include a nice tag detailing what I used in each bottle and the date I bottled it, as well as any other information you want to pass along. 

Happy Infusing!  And don’t be afraid to reach out with any questions!

Best Prosecco Pomegranate Fizz that’s Perfect for the Holidays

The holidays are here again – and from Friendsgiving to New Year’s Eve we all deserve to sip something delicious.  Here is the only cocktail you need to celebrate every moment – big or small – this holiday season!

The Pomegranate Fizz – a bubbly, refreshing cocktail with a sweet, herbaceous finish.  And the best part is if you don’t already have the ingredients, you can easily find them at the grocery store or your local liquor store.   

I’m going to be using one of my favorite local vodkas from Northside Distillery here in Cincinnati, but use your favorite (or whatever you have on hand).  I have Gran Marnier, but use Cointreau, Triple Sec, or Orange Curaçao if you prefer.   I always keep a few splits of Prosecco in the fridge (you never know when you’ll need a glass of bubbles) but use your favorite dry sparkling wine.  And if you don’t have Orange Bitters, just skip them – this will still be a delicious cocktail!

Pomegranate Fizz

  • Vodka 1 ounce
  • Pomegranate Juice 1 ounce
  • Orange Liqueur .5 ounce
  • Orange Bitters 2-3
  • Prosecco

Rim your favorite champagne flute with gold sanding sugar.  In a shaker tin combine the Vodka, Pomegranate Juice, Orange Liqueur, and Orange Bitters.  Add ice and shake it up.  Strain into your flute.  Top with your sparkling wine – be careful not to overflow the glass!  But if you do, it’s ok.  Accidents happen to the best of us! And if you want to be extra, garnish with a sprig of rosemary.

What do you think?  Will you be trying the Pomegranate Fizz this holiday season?