Limoncello (Grown-Ups’ Cordial)

Zest of 6 Lemons

250ml fresh lemon juice

1 litre vodka

600ml vodka syrup*

Wash the lemons.  Use a zester to peel the skin.  Juice the lemons and put the juice and zest into a large jar with the vodka.  Store in a dark, dry place for about 2 weeks to let the flavour absorb into the vodka.  Strain the vodka mixture through wet muslin or cheesecloth.  Add the vodka syrup.  Store in bottles ready for use.  Chill in the fridge until ready to serve.

* Vodka syrup

500ml still mineral water

1200g sugar

200ml vodka

Bring the water to the boil in a large saucepan.  Reduce the heat to moderate, add the sugar and stir until it dissolves completely.  Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes until the mixture has s a syrup consistency.  Add the vodka, mix well and cool.