Kumquat Rose Cocktail

A recipe for kumquat-infused gin from Matt Lee and Ted Lee's cookbook The Lee Bros. Charleston Kitchen inspired this cocktail: the kumquat's sweet-tart flavor is perfectly balanced by the herbaceous complexity of Lillet Rose.

MAKES 1 COCKTAIL
 

INGREDIENTS

FOR THE KUMQUAT-INFUSED GIN
1 ½ lb. kumquats, thinly sliced and juices reserved
1 750-ml bottle dry gin
1½ tsp. kosher salt

1 oz. Lillet Rose
3 slices kumquat from the infusion, for garnish
 

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Make the kumquat-infused gin: Combine kumquats, gin, and salt in a sterilized 2-qt. glass jar. Seal with a tight fitting lid; let sit in a cool, dark spot for at least 24 hours or up to 2 weeks (the flavor will intensify over time). To use, strain  what you need and use the sliced kumquats for garnish.

2. Combine 2 oz. kumquat-infused gin and Lillet Rose in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into a martini glass or coupe; garnish with kumquat slices.