How to Infuse Your Own Vodka or Bourbon
Infusing spirits at home is a simple and enjoyable way to create custom flavors for parties, gifting, or weekend cocktail experiments. With a mason jar, a bottle of your favorite vodka or bourbon, and a few thoughtful additions, you can turn everyday ingredients into something memorable. Midstate Distillery spirits make an excellent base, and the Fresh Market provides inspiration everywhere you look.
Getting Started
Think of this as your base recipe for crafting the perfect spirit infusion. It is easy, flexible, and designed to help you play with flavor.
What You Need
A clean mason jar with a tight lid
Your spirit of choice from Midstate Distillery
Flavor ingredients such as:
Fresh fruit from Latimore Valley Farms
Candy and dried fruits from Weaver Nut Sweets and Snacks
Spices, dried or fresh herbs
Curiosity and a bit of creativity
How to Do It
Choose your spirit. Vodka keeps things bright and clean. Bourbon adds warmth and roundness.
Select your flavors. One to three ingredients is usually enough to create something layered without becoming overwhelming.
Build your jar. Add your flavor ingredients first. Pour in the spirit until everything is fully covered.
Seal tightly. Infusions do not need refrigeration, but they do need a secure lid.
Let it rest. Vodka, gin, and rum infuse quickly. Bourbon takes its time, but it develops richness along the way.
Shake before tasting. This redistributes settled ingredients and wakes up the flavor.
Strain and store. Once you like the taste, remove the ingredients. Do not eat them. They have given their best.
Enjoy or gift. Sealed well, your infusion will keep for several months.
Tips from the Test Kitchen
Create several jars with different flavors for a party. Guests love choosing their favorites.
Avoid prepared foods or cereal. They do not hold up well in spirits.
Label each jar with the flavor and start date. Future you will be grateful.
Taste as you go and trust your instincts. Infusing is creative, not exact.