Are you hosting a gathering and want to include infused wine or cocktails, but don't have 3-5 days to spare? We understand - we've been there! While we 100% advocate for respecting the slow, steadiness of the infusion process, we also understand that life happens. So, if you find yourself in a bind, here are some quick tips to get your last-minute infusions ready in time.
Apply Warmth (Not High Heat)
Moderate warmth can help accelerate an infusion by speeding up the flavor extraction process, however do not apply high heat to an alcohol infusion. Keeping the temperature at roughly 75 degrees or below will avoid alcohol evaporation. Instead, try setting your alcoholic infusion jar in a bath of warm water to quicken the pace of infusion. Avoid heat entirely if using herbs in your infusion. For non-alcoholic infusions, heat is perfectly fine. Consider steeping your infusion in hot water or other heated liquids to shorten the infusion time.
Use Higher Proof Alcohol
Higher proof spirits extract flavor more quickly than lower proof spirits, so opting for a higher proof can move your infusion along faster. However, use caution with spirits over 100 proof and taste frequently to avoid over-infusing, which can cause your alcohol to turn bitter depending on the spirit used.
Shake Lighlty and Frequently
Shaking an infusion daily is a regular step in the infusions process, however if you are pressed for time, shaking your infusion more frequently can reduce your infusion time. This may mean shaking every few hours. However, when we say "shake" we are referring to a light swirl, not a strong die roll. Be careful to avoid vigorous shaking which can damage the infusion ingredients, impact the texture, and/or introduce air that may result in cloudiness.
Lightly Muddle
When making an infusion with fruits or herbs, gentle muddling can help extract flavors and accelerate the pace of your infusion without damaging your components. If you don't have a muddler, use the back of a spoon and gently apply pressure to your infusion ingredients once your liquid has been added. Do this just once to avoid over-muddling.
Keep in mind that while speeding up an infusion may be convenient, it may also affect the final flavor profile, so take note of your ingredients, taste regularly, and adjust your methods based on your desired outcome. Then go and have a great time!
Check out our full suite of Sweet Kee's beverage infusion kits online at www.sweetkees.com.