Peach Liqueur

You may decide to keep this liqueur around just for the aroma. It smells like a lazy Georgia afternoon when the peaches are ripe and a soft breeze drifts across the front porch.

Recipe Ingredients:

1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup water
2 pounds fresh ripe peaches, stemmed and washed
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon orange zest
1 1/2 cups 100-proof vodka
1 cup brandy
4 drops yellow food coloring

Cooking Directions:

1. Make a simple syrup by bringing sugar and water to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. When clear, remove from heat and let stand until just warm. Cut peaches in half, remove pits, and slice thin. Place peaches, pits, and citrus zests in clean 2-quart jar. Pour syrup over peaches and add vodka, brandy, and food coloring. Cover tightly and let stand in a cool, dark place for 2 weeks.
2. Use a fine-mesh strainer to strain out solids. Discard. Transfer liqueur to clean container, cover, and let stand for 2 to 3 weeks more. Rack or filter into final container such as a wine bottle, fruit jar, or decanter.

Makes 1 quart.