Spicy Basil & Lemon Zest

Description: This cocktail is a vibrant, refreshing, and spicy concoction that offers a tantalizing balance between herbal notes and citrusy zest, complemented by a kick of heat. Ingredients: - 2 oz gin - 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice - 1 oz basil-infused simple syrup - 1/2 oz St. Germain (elderflower liqueur) - 3-4 slices of fresh jalapeño - Basil leaves (for garnish) - Lemon wheel (for garnish) - Ice Basil-Infused Simple Syrup: - 1 cup water - 1 cup sugar - 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves Directions: 1. To make the basil-infused simple syrup, combine water and sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil and stir until sugar dissolves. Remove from heat, add basil leaves, and let steep for 30 minutes. Strain out the basil leaves and let the syrup cool. 2. In a shaker, muddle 3-4 slices of fresh jalapeño. 3. Add gin, lemon juice, basil-infused simple syrup, and St. Germain to the shaker. 4. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously until well-chilled. 5. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe glass. 6. Garnish with a fresh basil leaf and a lemon wheel. Glassware: Serve in a coupe glass.