Ripple's Play It Sam Recipe

1. For the sesame oil-infused gin: Combine gin and sesame oil in a medium saucepan. Set over a burner on the lowest heat and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20 minutes. Gin should not boil or bubble. Remove from heat.

2. Transfer liquid to a resealable wide-mouthed container and place in the freezer until the oil is completely solidified, about 12 hours or overnight.

3. Place a fine-meshed strainer over a bowl or pot and line with cheesecloth or a coffee filter. Strain gin through filter. Discard solid sesame oil. Transfer gin to a sealable container. Gin can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

4. For the Date Reduction: In a medium-sized pot, combine dates, water, and sugar. Bring mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring frequently. Reduce to a simmer and cook until liquid is reduced by half, about 20 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool. Strain through a fine mesh strainer and discard solids. Date reduction can be stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

5. For Each Cocktail: In an ice-filled mixing glass, stir 1 1/2 ounces infused gin with aquavit and 2 ounces date reduction until cold.

6. Strain into ice-filled serving glass, garnish with a lemon twist and serve immediately.

Special equipment

Cocktail shaker and strainer, sieve, resealable container for infusing