Grinch's Last Word Cocktail/Mocktail

To make the basil and spice syrup, combine water, sugar, and spices in a small saucepan.

Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.

Remove syrup from heat and let it steep for 30 minutes - 2 hours.

Bring a pot of water to a boil and prepare a bowl filled with water and some ice cubes.

Once the water is boiling, add the basil and cook for about 10 seconds. Quickly transfer to the ice bath. When cold, transfer onto a clean kitchen towel.

Remove berries and star anise from cooled syrup and place it with blanched basil leaves in a blender. Blend until smooth.

Pour the syrup into a fine sieve and let sit. Do not press it. Once done, transfer to a sterilized glass jar. Let cool completely before storing in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.

To make a cocktail, add gin, basil syrup and lime juice into a cocktail shaker with ice and shake until well chilled.

Strain into a chilled glass.

Garnish with a cherry.

Cheers!