Shiso Infused Vodka
By Chilled Magazine
In the limelight this week is Shiso-Infused Vodka as our spotlight ingredient that transforms the ShisoFine cocktail created by the beverage team at SUSHISAMBA Tree Bar & Lounge, Las Vegas.
The transformative drink incorporates shiso-infused vodka, shiso leaf, and Thai basil syrup that is churned through crushed ice with apple and lime juices and finished with a drizzle of crème de cassis, served long.
Shiso is a trending-right-now, delicate Asian herb with slightly fuzzy leaves and an almost minty-like flavor. When infusing shiso in a spirit use about 20 fresh shiso leaves (save a few for garnishing your cocktail). Shiso also works well when infused in gin. Just remember quality spirits work best with infusions.
ShisoFine
Ingredients:
- 1 oz. Shiso-leaf infused vodka*
- 1/2 oz. Crème de Pêche
- 1/2 oz. lime juice
- 1 1/2 oz. apple juice
- 1/2 oz. Thai basil syrup
- 1/4 oz. Crème de Cassis
Preparation: Pour first five ingredients and churn with half crushed ice. Top with remaining crushed ice in a Highball glass. Garnish with shiso leaf and drizzle of Crème de Cassis.
Shiso-Infused Vodka
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle quality vodka
- 20 fresh shiso leaves (plus 1-2 for garnish)
Preparation: Combine vodka and shiso in a large bowl or jar. Cover, and let stand overnight at room temperature. Strain into a pitcher or bottle and discard shiso.
About SUSHISAMBA Tree Bar & Lounge, Las Vegas
After over a decade of success in Las Vegas, SUSHISAMBA reinvents the guest experience with the newly opened Tree Bar & Lounge. Drawing inspiration from SUSHISAMBA London Tree Bar, the 1,500 square-foot oasis seamlessly blends with the location’s dramatic structure, swirling ribbons, and graffiti art. Featuring an ‘ancient banyan tree’ with an illuminated orange leaf canopy, Tree Bar is clad in warm, leather furniture, richly textured stones, tropical wood, and custom light fixtures. Led by Corporate Chef John Um and Executive Chef Joel Versola, SUSHISAMBA Tree Bar features exclusive new dishes and specialty cocktails alongside SUSHISAMBA’s regular favorites.