The Perfect Holiday Drink: Krupnikas

Most people have not heard of Krupnikas (or Krupnik), it's a spiced honey drink from eastern Europe that is absolutely perfect for the holidays! It does take a little bit of effort and patience to make since there is an aging process, but I promise that it is well worth the wait!

I've been making Krupnikas for the last 10 years and over that time have refined my recipe that I will share with you all! Enjoy and happy mixing!

cardamom seeds - 8
nutmeg seed - 0.75
teaspoons caraway seed - 1.5
whole cloves - 8
whole allspice berries - 8
(3 inch) cinnamon sticks - 3
teaspoons whole peppercorns - 3
pinch crushed saffron threads (opt.)
(1 in) fresh ginger root - 1.5
(1 in) fresh turmeric (yellow ginger) - 1.5
orange zest - 2
f lemon zest - 2
mL water - 475
tablespoon vanilla extract - 0.75
pounds honey - 1.5
151 proof grain alcohol (Everclear) - 750 mL

Instructions:

1. Crack the cardamom seeds and nutmeg with a heavy skillet on a cutting board. Toss them into a saucepan with the caraway seed, cloves, allspice berries, cinnamon sticks, peppercorns, saffron, ginger, turmeric, orange zest and lemon zest. Pour in the water, and bring to a boil. Cover, and simmer until the liquid is reduced by 1/2. Strain out spices, and set the liquid aside.

2. Pour honey into a large pot, and bring to a boil over medium heat. Skim off any foam from the top. Stir in the strained liquid from the spices and vanilla extract. Remove from heat and place far from the stove to avoid any flare-ups from the grain alcohol. Slowly stir in the grain alcohol. Place the pot back onto the burner over low heat and cover. Heat through, being careful not to boil or even simmer. Remove from heat and let stand overnight with the lid on.

3. The following day, pour the liquid into sterile bottles, seal, and allow to settle for 2 weeks. The longer you let it sit, the clearer it will become and the better it tastes. Serve warm.