Stafili Recipe
Sugarhouse Vodka, spiced concord grape syrup, bay leaf, lemon expression
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Ingredients
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Cocktail
Spiced Concord Grape Syrup (makes ~1 cup)
Method
Spiced Concord Grape Syrup (prepare ahead)
- 1
Combine
In a small saucepan combine 1 cup concord grape juice, 1 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup water. Stir to begin dissolving the sugar.
- 2
- 3
Cook
Bring mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to fully dissolve sugar. Once simmering, reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 6–8 minutes to concentrate flavor. Do not boil vigorously.
- 4
Infuse & cool
Remove from heat and let the syrup steep with the spices for 20–30 minutes (longer for stronger spice). Taste after 20 minutes and adjust if needed. Remove and discard the whole spices and bay leaf. Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve into a clean container. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate. Syrup will keep refrigerated in a sealed jar for up to 2 weeks.
Cocktail
- 5
Bay-leaf vodka (optional quick infusion)
If you want an extra bay note, place 1 fresh bay leaf in the bottle or a small jar with the 2 oz Sugarhouse Vodka and let it sit for 10–20 minutes before making the cocktail. Remove the leaf before mixing. (Optional — skip if you prefer a cleaner vodka flavor.)
- 6
- 7
Build & shake
In a cocktail shaker add 2 oz Sugarhouse Vodka, 0.75 oz spiced concord grape syrup, 0.5 oz fresh lemon juice and enough ice to fill the shaker about two-thirds full (roughly 5–6 ice cubes). Seal and shake vigorously for 12–15 seconds until well chilled and slightly diluted.
- 8
Strain
Discard the ice or water from the chilled serving glass. Double-strain the cocktail into the chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass using both a Hawthorne and a fine mesh strainer to catch any ice chips and pulp.
- 9
Lemon expression & garnish
Take a piece of lemon peel and hold it skin-side down over the drink. Gently squeeze and twist the peel to express the oils over the surface, then sweep the peel around the rim and drop it into the drink. Finish by floating a fresh bay leaf on top for aroma and visual appeal.
- 10
Serve
Serve immediately. Recommend: inform the guest the bay leaf is aromatic and intended as a garnish; remove before drinking if desired.