Earl Grey–Aquavit Spritz

Ingredients

• 1 (750-ml) bottle aquavit
• 1 (3-inch) lemon peel strip (from 1 lemon)
• 2 tablespoons Earl Grey tea leaves
• 3/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 3/4 cup honey simple syrup
• 1/2 cup water
• 8 dashes pear bitters (such as Dillon’s)
• 1 (750-ml) bottle sparkling wine (such as brut Cava or Champagne) or club soda
• Lemon and pear slices

Steps

1. Stir together aquavit, lemon peel strip, and tea leaves in bowl or large glass measuring cup. Let stand, uncovered, at room temperature 20 minutes. Pour mixture through a fine wire-mesh strainer into another large measuring cup or bowl; discard solids. Repeat straining procedure. Store in airtight container at room temperature up to 3 months.
2. Add 2 cups Earl Grey–infused aquavit to a pitcher. (Reserve remaining infused aquavit for another use). Stir in lemon juice, honey simple syrup, 1/2 cup water, and bitters. Refrigerate until chilled, 2 hours or up to overnight. Just before serving, stir in sparkling wine or club soda. Serve over crushed ice in rocks glasses. Garnish servings with lemon and pear slices.