Instructions

• STEP 1

  FOR THE SPICED SIMPLE SYRUP: Wash, dry, and zest orange into a small saucepan. (Reserve remaining orange for later use.)

  • 1/2 orange

• STEP 2

  Wash and dry thyme. Set aside one sprig for garnish, then add remaining thyme to the pan with the orange zest.

  • 1/4 small pkg fresh thyme

• STEP 3

  Add sugar, water, and spices to the pan; stir to combine and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and simmer, stirring occasionally, until sugar is just dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool completely before straining and using. (NOTE: this recipe makes about 2/3 cup spiced simple syrup. Transfer leftover syrup to a small jar and refrigerate for up to one month.)

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 4 star anise, whole
  • 8 cloves, whole
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 1/4 tsp allspice, ground

• STEP 4

  FOR THE COCKTAIL: Juice reserved orange into a small bowl, then measure out 1 tbsp juice and place in a glass or tumbler of choice. (Reserve remaining orange juice for another use.)

• STEP 5

  Add 1/2 fl oz (1 tbsp) spiced simple syrup, 2 fl oz (1/4 cup) gin, and ice cubes to the glass, then stir to combine.

  • 2 fl oz gin
  • 2/3 cup ice cube

• STEP 6

  Top the glass off with 4 fl oz (1/2 cup) chilled tonic water. Stir gently, then garnish with the reserved thyme sprigs. Enjoy!

  • 4 fl oz tonic water