1. In a medium saucepan, heat sugar with 1/2 cup water, stirring, until sugar is dissolved. Let cool to room temperature.

2. Stir in vodka. Pour mixture into a decanter and add kumquats (halves first) and thyme. Chill at least 3 weeks. Serve ice-cold, in shot glasses.

Note: Nutritional analysis is per 2-oz. serving.