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Photo by: Cory Baldwin

MAKES 1 DRINK

INGREDIENTS

2 oz. lemon-infused vodka
1 oz. ginger syrup
Juice of ½ lemon
Club soda or gingerale

FOR THE LEMON-INFUSED VODKA
2 lemons (we recommend using organic)
About 2 cups vodka 

FOR THE GINGER SYRUP
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
2 oz. fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thin

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Make the lemon vodka: Slice the lemons into rounds and place in a 16 oz. mason jar or other pint-size container. Fill the jar with vodka. Seal and give a good shake. Let the mixture steep for as long as you can wait, shaking every so often. (The infusion will taste lemony after just a few hours, but it's best after steeping for at least 2 days.)

2. Make the ginger syrup: Combine the sugar and water in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced ginger and stir until sugar has completely dissolved. Reduce heat to low and allow mixture to simmer until the syrup thickens slightly (about 10 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool completely. Strain the mixture into a clean, air-tight container and discard the ginger or reserve for another use. Refrigerated, the syrup will keep for about two weeks.

3. Combine 2 oz. vodka, 2 oz. ginger syrup, and the lemon juice in a cocktail shaker over ice. Shake well and strain into an ice-filled highball glass. Top with soda or ginger beer and garnish with a lemon twist.