Creating botanical gin from vodka is a straightforward process involving infusing vodka with juniper berries, coriander seeds, cardamom, citrus zest, and optional botanicals like lavender or rose petals. You mix the ingredients, let them infuse in a jar for one to two weeks, tasting regularly to achieve the desired flavour. This method effectively transforms plain vodka into a gin-like spirit, ideal for gin enthusiasts to enjoy custom botanical blends.

Botanical-Infused Vodka Recipe, Difficulty: Easy, Serves: Varies, Course Type: Beverage, Allergen information: None, Intolerances: None

Ingredients:
– 750ml (25.4 fl oz or 3.17 cups) Vodka
– 2 tablespoons (30ml or 1 fl oz) Juniper berries
– 1 teaspoon (5ml or 0.17 fl oz) Coriander seeds
– 4 Cardamom pods
– 1 Cinnamon stick
– 2 strips of Lemon zest, avoiding the white pith
– 1 strip of Orange zest, avoiding the white pith
– 1 teaspoon (5ml or 0.17 fl oz) Dried rose petals (optional)
– 1 teaspoon (5ml or 0.17 fl oz) Dried lavender flowers (optional)

Method: Begin by sterilising a large glass jar. Mix all your botanicals together and add them to the jar. Pour in the vodka, ensuring the botanicals are fully submerged. Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place. Shake the jar once daily for the first week. Taste the infusion after one week; if the desired flavour strength is reached, strain the vodka through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove all botanicals. If a stronger flavour is desired, allow it to infuse for up to one more week, tasting daily. Once satisfied, transfer your botanical-infused vodka into a clean bottle.

Tip: The key to a successful infusion is tasting as you go, since the intensity of flavour can vary based on the freshness and specific quantity of your botanicals.