Limoncello is an Italian Lemon Liquor.  It is often used as a refreshing summertime drink, a palate cleanser or an after dinner drink.  I have even seen it mixed with Grappa and served as a Margarita.  Homemade Limoncello is great for entertaining or gift giving. 

Ingredients:
17 Lemons
2 750 ml bottles 100 Proof Vodka
4 cups of sugar
5 cups of water

Clean lemons thoroughly, I use soap and water and often a scrub brush to remove and dirt, wax or pesticides.  Carefully zest the lemons, being sure only to zest the outer rind.  You do not want to zest the white part of the lemon it is very bitter.

In a large jar, add one bottle of vodka and lemon zest.  Seal jar.  The jar must sit untouched in a cool, dark place for 10 to 40 days.  Do not open the jar, no need to stir the liquor and lemon.  The longer it sits the better it will taste.

Between 10-40 days, combine the sugar and water in a saucepan and cook until thickened, about 6-8 minutes.  Add to the mixture with the additional bottle of vodka and allow it to sit for an additional 10-40 days.

After the second period of rest, strain the lemon rest and bottle the Limoncello.  Store in the freezer until ready to serve. 

Enjoy!