Golden Wasser (Danziger Goldwasser Liqueur)

Ingredients

• 750 ml Neutral grain spirits or vodka (95% ABV or highest proof available) (Original called for 'spirits of wine' - use high-proof neutral spirits)
• 12 drops Food-grade anise essential oil (Must be food-grade essential oil)
• 6 drops Food-grade cinnamon essential oil (Must be food-grade essential oil)
• 3 drops Food-grade rose essential oil (Must be food-grade essential oil)
• 8 drops Food-grade citron or lemon essential oil (Must be food-grade essential oil)
• 750 ml Simple syrup (1:1 sugar to water ratio) (Equal parts sugar and water, cooled)
• 2 sheets Edible gold leaf (Cut into small flakes for suspension in the liqueur)

Instructions

1. 1Pour the neutral spirits into a clean glass bottle or jar. Add the anise oil (12 drops), cinnamon oil (6 drops), rose oil (3 drops), and citron oil (8 drops) directly to the spirits.
2. 2Seal the container tightly and shake vigorously for 2-3 minutes until the essential oils are fully dissolved into the spirits. The mixture should appear clear or slightly cloudy.
3. 3Add the simple syrup to the infused spirits mixture. Stir or shake gently to combine thoroughly.
4. 4Set up a funnel with coffee filters or fine filtering paper over a clean container. Pour the liqueur through the filter slowly, allowing it to drip through completely. This may take 15-20 minutes.
5. 5Using clean scissors or a sharp knife, carefully cut the edible gold leaf sheets into very small flakes or bits, approximately 2-3mm in size.
6. 6Stir the gold leaf flakes into the filtered liqueur, distributing them evenly. Pour the liqueur into clean, sterilized bottles and seal tightly. The gold flakes will float suspended throughout the liquid.
7. 7Store the bottled liqueur in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks to allow the flavors to meld and mature. Shake gently before serving to redistribute the gold flakes.