We took a little Lake District holiday which inspired a woodland martini recipe

I haven’t been to the Lake District since I was a child and have strong memories of feeling very Swallows & Amazons as we hired a boat and walked across the Lakeland paths.  Coming back some years later I was in awe of the colourful yet ever-changing landscapes and deep inky blue lakes.  I kept pointing and saying Look At That!  I Could Cook Here and Let’s Swim for It – all on repeat.

We stopped off at a waterfall and walked around commenting on how our boys would love it.  I missed them at that very moment to my very soul.  Halfway around the walk I decided that we should pick some fir and put it in vodka and make a martini to remind us of our mini adventure.  No one told me off for picking the fir but then there was no one around as it was just us two for miles. 

 Next time I go back to the Lake District I will bring our boys.  I felt a pull, a longing and just not sure I can do this childless travelling lark even if they are proper adults now.  Those reading this with young children will probably think I’m mad but I love them and more importantly I like them.

Here’s my recipe for Woodland Vodka and a cocktail for you to make thereafter.  

Citrus and woody, a delicious combination to give your Martinis a zingy hit

Woodland Vodka

75cl triple distilled vodka

4-5 sprigs Douglas Fir, leaves stripped and chopped

Small handful rosehips, pricked over with a pin

15 coriander seeds, crushed

15 juniper berries, chopped

Place all the prepared ingredients along with the vodka in a large sealable jar.  Seal and keep in a dark cool place for about 3-4 days.  Strain into a sterilised bottle.  Allow to round off in the bottle for a couple of weeks but you can just enjoy this straightaway if you like.

Lakeland Martini

(serves 1)

60ml Woodland Fir Vodka

5-10ml Dry Vermouth

Ice cubes

Place all the ingredients in the bottom of a cocktail shaker, stir and strain into a chilled martini glass.