Inspired by the Victorian Essence of Violets, which is made by steeping orris root powder in alcohol, I tried to make Essence of Roses or Rose Extract with fresh rose petals.

Ingredients:

• fresh organic rose petals
• alcohol (I used 75% ethanol) (if intended for human consumption use vodka or rum)

Gather fresh, organic rose petals and put them into a jar. Pour the alcohol over the petals so that they are just covered. Close the lid, and let the tincture steep for two days at room temperature. Then strain through a sieve. The rose extract has a red color and a fruity scent.