To make great cocktails from scratch, you need to make great syrups. They form the base for many different cocktails and making them is so easy - we'll show you how. Once you've tried basic infusions and mastered syrups, you'll be all set to make spirit based liqueurs, too.
This page is devoted to helping you get started on both syrups and liqueurs, ideal if you've got access to a Natural and Noble Spice & Botanical kit and a few kitchen essentials.
Syrups and Liqueurs
Making a syrup
Syrups are the secret to adding flavour, colour, and sweetness to your drinks. They’re simple to make, and with your Natural and Noble Gin Botanicals Kit, you can experiment with a variety of delicious flavours, including spicy, floral and citrus flavours. Each recipe makes enough for about two regular sized jam jars of syrup.
Directions:
- In a saucepan, heat 1 cup (cup = approx 200-240ml) of water and add 1 cup of sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the contents of your chosen syrup base.
- Stir for 1 minute, then remove from the heat and allow the syrup to cool.
- Once cool, strain the liquid using a sieve or muslin cloth to remove solids.
- Pour your finished syrup into a jar and store it in the fridge, where it will keep for up to six weeks.
3 ways to use a syrup
The best thing about making your own drinks syrups is their versatility!
- Make your own liqueurs: Combine 1 part syrup with 1 part spirit - gin, rum or whisky (or yes, vodka!). Shake or stir the mixture well to create a simple, delicious liqueur that can be stored in the fridge and enjoyed over ice.
- Flavour your Gin & Tonics: Simply add 2 tablespoons of your flavoured syrup to a classic gin and tonic for a new and exciting flavour twist.
- As a cocktail base: Use your homemade syrups as the base for many other cocktails. For classic cocktails including Martinis and Sours - your syrups will provide the perfect touch of added flavour and sweetness.
Simple liqueurs
Once your flavoured syrups are ready, turning them into delectable liqueurs is incredibly simple.
- Combine 1 part syrup with 1 part spirit again - gin, rum, whisky or vodka depending on what you're making. This 1:1 ratio is how we do it, but the brilliance of this approach is it's easy to adjust it to your own preference.
- Shake or stir the mixture well to create your simple, delicious liqueur that can be stored in the fridge and enjoyed over ice.
- Serve over ice or as you fancy
- Storage: Your homemade liqueur can be stored in the fridge for months.
The possibilities for creating a range of unique and delicious liqueurs are truly limitless. Enjoy experimenting and sipping your way to your next favourite creation!
