Why Cheesecloth is Perfect for Alcohol Infusions

f you’re looking to elevate your homemade cocktails, alcohol infusions are a great way to add depth and complexity to spirits. One of the best tools for the job? Cheesecloth. This lightweight, breathable fabric makes the infusion process cleaner, more efficient, and easier to manage.

Choosing the Right Cheesecloth Grade

Not all cheesecloth is created equal, and for alcohol infusions, grade #50 or #60 is ideal. These grades offer a fine weave that allows flavors to infuse effectively while keeping small particles contained. Grade #50 has a medium-fine weave, which is great for most infusions, while grade #60 is even finer, ensuring no unwanted debris escapes into your final product.

How to Use Cheesecloth for Infusions

The best way to infuse spirits with cheesecloth is by creating a flavor bundle. Here’s how:

1. Choose Your Ingredients – Whether it's fresh herbs, spices, citrus peels, dried fruits, or even coffee beans, select the flavors you want to infuse into your alcohol.
2. Wrap and Secure – Place your ingredients in the center of a square piece of cheesecloth, then gather the edges and tie it securely with kitchen twine.
3. Drop It In – Submerge the cheesecloth pouch into your alcohol of choice—vodka, whiskey, rum, or gin work well.
4. Infuse and Remove – Let it steep for hours or even days, depending on how strong you want the flavor. Once it’s done, simply remove the cheesecloth bundle, leaving behind a smooth, sediment-free infusion.

Using cheesecloth eliminates the hassle of straining later and makes cleanup a breeze. Try it for your next infusion and enjoy a perfectly crafted, homemade spirit!