Floral Infused Vodka with Runamok Bitters

'Tis the season for colorful drinks! I'm a big fan of infused alcohol all year round, but in the winter I find myself reaching for cinnamon sticks, star anise and allspice over and over again. This drink features those plus another of my pantry staples: hibiscus. The infusion I used at home had been going for 4 days and the star anise flavor was fully developed. I loved the end result and my husband thought it was a touch medicinal. The trick with alcohol infusions is to test them as they go to make sure the result is to your liking. Labeling the container with a 'started on' date can be helpful. 

Sprinkle a few petals in for flavor and an unmatched hue that's sure to elevate the holiday cheer.  

Makes 2 servings + extra infused vodka

Ingredients:

For the infused vodka:

• 8 oz vodka
• 1 1/2 tablespoons dried hibiscus petals
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 3 whole star anise
• 4 allspice berries 
• 1 teaspoon dried orange zest

For the cocktail:

• two jiggers infused vodka
• 1 jigger cardamom lime simple syrup 
• 1/2 red grapefruit, juiced
• 1/2 lime, juiced
• 4-6 dashes Runamok Maple Floral Bitters
• optional: soda water to finish

Directions:

1. Combine all ingredients and let rest for at least 24 hours. 
2. Combine vodka, simple syrup and fruit juice in a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Shake until well blended and pour evenly into two glasses.
4. Finish with bitters and garnish with lime.
5. To serve, I topped mine with soda water, but the drink is also great without. Cheers!