Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240 ml) Unsweetened Cranberry Juice (for syrup)
  • 1 cup (200g) Granulated White Sugar (for syrup)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) Water (for syrup)
  • 2 sticks Cinnamon
  • 3 whole Star Anise
  • 1 strip Orange Zest (avoiding pith)
  • 2 fl oz (60 ml) Premium Dry Gin (London Dry style)
  • 1 fl oz (30 ml) Freshly squeezed Lime Juice
  • 3/4 fl oz (22 ml) Spiced Cranberry Syrup (homemade)
  • 2 Dashes Angostura Bitters (optional)
  • 2–3 fl oz (60–90 ml) Chilled Prosecco or Soda Water (To Top)
  • Ice (large cubes preferred)
  • 2-3 Fresh Cranberries (Garnish)
  • 1 thin Orange Wheel or small Lime Wedge (Garnish)
  • 1 small Sprig of Rosemary (Garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Combine and Heat: In a small saucepan, combine the cranberry juice, sugar, and water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is translucent.
  2. Infuse: Remove the pan from the heat immediately. Add the cinnamon sticks, star anise, and orange zest.
  3. Steep and Cool: Let the syrup mixture steep for a minimum of 30 minutes, or until it reaches room temperature. (The longer it steeps, the deeper the spice flavour.)
  4. Strain and Store: Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean, airtight container, discarding the spices. Refrigerate until fully chilled (can be stored for up to 2 weeks).
  5. Prepare the Glassware: Fill your chosen cocktail glass (Coupe or Highball) with ice and set aside, or place it in the freezer to chill completely.
  6. Measure and Combine: In the base of a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, lime juice, Spiced Cranberry Syrup, and Angostura Bitters.
  7. Add Ice and Shake: Fill the shaker 3/4 full with fresh, high-quality ice. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds, until the shaker is frosty cold on the outside.
  8. Strain: Empty the chilling ice from the serving glass. Double-strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
  9. Top and Garnish: Top the cocktail with 2–3 fl oz of chilled Prosecco (for the 'Fizz') or soda water. Garnish artfully with the cranberries, orange wheel, and a small sprig of rosemary. Serve immediately.