Vanilla beans

I"ve done this - I usually split the bean lengthwise and put it in the jar and then pour vodka over it. I have several dark (brownish) bottles with glass stoppers - they hold about 1 to 1-1/2 cups. I put 2 split beans in and then fill with vodka. I use whatever we have in the liquor cabinet. Mid-price I imagine. I know I wouldn't use the REAL good stuff but doubt I'd buy the cheapest either. I stopper it and do not shake, etc. Put it in the pantry (cool, dry place) and wait a couple of weeks. Then I use it. I've refilled (using the same beans) the bottle when it gets about half-down and then let it stand another week or 2 ... and go on. I discard the bean when the vodka does not taste much like vanilla! Some I've had a year or even 3 --- others (probably not great beans to start with!) have little zip after the first few months.