About Luscious Liqueurs:

In this collection of 50 easy recipes, illustrated with gorgeous color photos, home-entertaining expert A.J. Rathbun shows readers how to create their own liqueurs--infusions that meld liquor with fruit, herbs, and spices--for any occasion. Chapters include citrus mixes such as Limoncello and Mandarino; fruit flavors such as A Fair Pear; nutty/spicy liqueurs such as Anisetter and Basil Grappa; exotic mixtures such as Persephonia; and sweet treats such as Mocha Cream. The introduction covers all the basic rules, tips, and necessary tools, as well as information on gift-giving, storing, and packaging, and cocktail suggestions.

Luscious Liqueur Sample Recipe:

Scotch Treat homemade liqueur

Scotch Treat

Makes about 1-3/4 pints

Though the band is Irish, and the base of this liqueur is Scotch, I still always feel like singing Thin Lizzy’s “Whiskey in the Jar” when drinking this one. Maybe it’s just one of the later lines in the song, “but I takes delight in the juice of the barley,” or maybe the adventure-style narrative of the lyrics, which match the rustic nature of this mixture. I’m not saying you need to dress up as an antique soldier of fortune and run across the hills swilling this and singing, but I’m not saying you shouldn’t, either.

1/2 teaspoon whole fennel seeds

1/2 teaspoon whole caraway seeds

2 teaspoons fresh sage leaves

2 cups Scotch whiskey

1-1/2 cups simple syrup

1. Using a mortar and pestle, mash the fennel, caraway, and sage. Put this mixture into a large glass container with a tight-fitting lid.

2. Add the Scotch and stir well. Seal and place in a cool, dry spot, away from sunlight. Let sit for 3 weeks, swirling occasionally.

3. Add the simple syrup, stir again, and reseal. Return to its spot. Let set for 3 more weeks, swirling occasionally.

4. Carefully strain the liqueur through a double layer of cheesecloth into a pitcher or other easy-pouring vessel. Strain again through 2 new layers of cheesecloth into 1 large bottle or a number of small bottles or jars. Let sit for 1 more week before serving.

A Note: I suggest using a solid blended Scotch, like Jonny Walker, Cutty Sark, or J & B.