ROZOLIN (ROSE LIQUEUR)
INGREDIENTS
| 350 g (12 oz / about 3½ cups) | rose petals |
| 350 g (12 oz / about 1¾ cups) | sugar |
| 1 litre (34 fl oz / about 4¼ cups) | grappa (lozovača) |
INSTRUCTIONS
- For the liqueur, use untreated roses - Rosa centifolia. Separate clean, healthy petals and inspect carefully, as small insects may hide in the fragrant flowers.
- Layer the petals in a jar, starting with a layer of petals, then a layer of sugar. Repeat this process until all petals and sugar are used.
- Add 250 ml (1 cup / 8 fl oz) of grappa and mix well. Seal the jar and place it in the sun for 40 days.
- Every 10 days, open the jar and stir thoroughly. The petals will darken and release their fragrant aroma.
- After 40 days, add the remaining 750 ml (3 cups / 25 fl oz) of grappa. Mix and leave in the sun for another 4–5 days.
- Strain the mixture and pour into bottles.
*In the past, Dubrovnik was famous for this rose liqueur. Rozolin was given as a gift to esteemed guests and served at festive occasions as a sign of welcome. Dubrovnik housewives also enjoyed adding it to traditional cakes.
