Rose Petal Vodka
This beautiful infused vodka takes just 48 hours to make. The most important thing is to use roses that have not been sprayed with pesticides or exposed to other pollutants – best of all would be those from your own garden. Wild rose varieties can work, but tend to have a more delicate scent than their cultivated cousins and will give a fairly subtle flavour. For best results, pick clean, freshly opened, highly scented blooms on a dry, sunny day. When the vodka is ready, why not try our simple cocktail suggestion, below?
- 2 large handfuls of fresh, fragrant rose petals
- 750ml good-quality vodka
Method
- Pick over the rose petals and brush off insects or dirt. Put them into a sterilised 750ml (or larger) glass jar and pour over the vodka. If any petals poke up above the surface of the liquid, push them down with a clean spoon. Leave to infuse for 36–48 hours, shaking the jar regularly.
- Strain the vodka through a sieve lined with muslin. If you want a deeper rose flavour, you can at this stage repeat the whole process and infuse the vodka with a second batch of fresh petals, and strain again.
- Using a funnel, pour the strained vodka into a clean bottle or bottles and store in a cool, dark place.
Notes
To make 4 short measures of Rosy Blush cocktail:
Pour 250ml rose petal vodka into shaker or jug and add 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice and 3 tablespoons sugar syrup (see note above). The vodka will immediately turn pink. Add ice and shake or stir well until thoroughly chilled, then pour into 4 glasses and add a rose petal to each, if you like.
Credits
Vodka recipe by Wild Food UK, cocktail recipe, development and photos by Otherwise
8 comments for Rose Petal Vodka
is it for Japanese wild pink rose only?
Any rose petals can be used.
Should the rose petals be dried first or fresh?
It’s best to use the petals after drying them.
How long will this stay fresh for please?
The high alcohol content of the vodka should keep this from spoiling for years.
What is the best way to clean and dry the rose petals and which colour or best roses to use?
I don’t know which petals to use, probably the best smelling ones. I would try to pick clean petals rather than washing them as this may lessen the flavour/aroma.