One of my new favorite things to do is to experiment with vodka infusions.  Many of my favorite spots offer their version of a Stoli Doli which is pineapple infused vodka.   The first one I tried was at Capitol Grille.   They can be a bit dangerous because they are so smooth and taste like pure  pineapple juice so consider yourself warned.  It was so tasty that it inspired me to try to make a version at home. I sliced a fresh pineapple, placed in a container, covered it with vodka, put the lid on and set it on my counter for 7 days.   When it was ready, I strained it into a container, discarded the pineapple and refrigerated the rest.  I strained it over ice in a Martini glass and it tasted amazing.  While I was out and about I discovered Firebirds restaurant offered one too so I decided to try their version.   Theirs is called a Double Black Diamond.   It’s also a pineapple infusion, however they use Citron vodka and let it sit for 28 days according to my waitress.    I tried their method and loved the addition of the Citron vodka.  It inspired me to experiment with other fruits.   The simplest one to make is a strawberry infusion.  Just take quartered strawberries, place them into a container, cover with vodka, seal with a lid and wait for the strawberries to turn white and vodka to turn red.   You can use this for my strawberry basil martini in place of muddling.http://www.drinksontherox.com/recipes/strawberry-basil-martini/  So far I’ve only tried fruit infusions; however,  lots of bars and restaurants are also using herbs for their infusions as well as peppers and other vegetables.  Also, my spirit of choice is vodka; however, feel free to experiment with others on your own.  I’d love to hear what you come up with!