Strawberry Liqueur

3 cups strawberries, hulled, washed and stemmed
1½ cup sugar
2 cups 100-proof vodka
1 cup water
½ tsp. lemon zest
1 tsp. orange zest
1 tsp. lemon juice, freshly squeezed

Crush strawberries and sugar together in bowl. Let stand for about one hour. Transfer to clean 2-qt container and add vodka, water, lemon zest, orange zest, and lemon juice, freshly squeezed.

Cover and let stand in a cool, dark place for 2 days, shaking frequently.

Use a fine-mesh strainer to strain out solids. Discard. Transfer liqueur to clean container, cover, and let stand for 1 week.

Rack or filter into final container. Age for at least 1 month more before serving.

Makes 4 servings.