Perfect Herbed Vinegar

2 sprigs fresh sage, thyme, rosemary or other pungent herb
2 long spirals lemon rind
4 teaspoons white peppercorns
1 quart white wine vinegar

Place herbs of choice, lemon and peppercorns into sterilized bottle. Add white wine vinegar. (You can divide the recipe into 2 bottles of 2 cups each, halving the ingredients between each bottle).

Place in a sunny window for 2 weeks; after 2 weeks, the vinegar is ready to use.

You may choose to filter the mixture for long term use or for eye-appealing gifts. Pour mixture through several coffee filter papers, discarding the herbs, peppercorns and lemon spiral.

Rebottle, adding a new sprig or two of the herb of your choice, but omitting the peppercorns, which can darken the mixture over time.

Label and store in cool dark place for up to 6 months.

Makes 1 quart.