Next, I pour my chosen spirit over the grapes, making sure they’re evenly submerged. If the grapes aren’t completely covered, I simply add a splash more of the liquor. I cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator. It’s important to let them soak for at least 2 hours, but if you can be patient and let them marinate overnight, you’ll be rewarded with even more flavor.
After soaking, I grab a strainer to separate the grapes from the liquid. Gently shaking the strainer helps remove any excess spirit while keeping the grapes intact and perfectly plump. If you have fresh mint leaves, this is a great time to toss them in with the grapes for an added burst of freshness. Finally, I transfer the grapes to a baking sheet or shallow dish for an appealing presentation, and I store them in the fridge until it’s time to serve!
Pro Tips for Best Results
One lesson I learned after making Boozy Grapes a few times is that not all spirits work the same way. I tested this three ways with vodka, spiced rum, and even a fruity wine, and I found that vodka allows the natural grape flavor to shine through while still adding a nice kick of alcohol. The spiced rum added an interesting layer of flavor, too, especially with a hint of vanilla!
If you’re using sugar, I recommend starting with less. You can always taste the mixture and add more sugar if you prefer your grapes a bit sweeter. I found that over-sweetening can mask the lovely taste of the grapes and the chosen spirit, so it’s best to be cautious.
Lastly, I highly suggest serving these boozy delights in a beautiful dish. The vibrant colors of the grapes paired with mint as garnish make for an Instagram-worthy presentation. Trust me; making things visually appealing elevates the entire experience!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One of the biggest mistakes I made the first time I made Boozy Grapes was not letting them soak long enough. I was too eager to try them, so I only let them steep for an hour when they truly need at least two hours to absorb the flavors. This resulted in grapes that were nice, but not fully infused. Be patient; the waiting is worth it! (See the next page below to continue…)