Pink Noyau

Ingredients

• 1 quart (946 ml) Neutral grain spirit (vodka or Everclear), 95% ABV (Original called for 'spirits of wine sixty-two degrees overproof' which is approximately 95% ABV. Use high-proof vodka or Everclear diluted appropriately.)
• 15 drops Essential oil of bitter almonds (Food-grade only. Can substitute with almond extract (1/4 tsp) if essential oil unavailable.)
• 3 drops Essential oil of roses (Food-grade rose oil or rose water (1 tsp) as substitute)
• 4 drops Essential oil of aniseed (Food-grade anise oil)
• 1 drop Tincture of vanilla (Or use 1/8 tsp vanilla extract)
• 1 quart (946 ml) Simple syrup (1:1 sugar to water) (Equal parts sugar and water, dissolved)
• 1 to 3 drops Pink food coloring (Natural beet juice or cochineal extract preferred for historic accuracy)

Instructions

1. 1If not already prepared, combine 1 quart water with 1 quart sugar in a saucepan. Heat gently, stirring until sugar completely dissolves. Allow to cool to room temperature.
2. 2Pour the neutral grain spirit into a large glass bottle or jar. Add 15 drops of essential oil of bitter almonds, 3 drops of oil of roses, 4 drops of oil of aniseed, and 1 drop of tincture of vanilla to the spirit.
3. 3Seal the bottle tightly and shake vigorously for 1-2 minutes to thoroughly combine the essential oils with the spirit.
4. 4Add the cooled simple syrup to the flavored spirit. Add 1-3 drops of pink food coloring until the mixture reaches a delicate pink color. Stir or shake gently to combine.
5. 5Strain the liqueur through a fine-mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth or coffee filter to remove any sediment or undissolved particles. This may take 10-15 minutes for the liquid to pass through.
6. 6Pour the filtered liqueur into clean, sterilized bottles. Seal tightly with caps or corks. Label with the date.
7. 7Store the bottled liqueur in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks before serving to allow the flavors to meld and mellow. The liqueur will improve with age and can be stored for several years.