Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1/2 cup Water
  • 4 pieces Whole Star Anise
  • 6 pieces Whole Cloves
  • 1 strip Orange Zest (use a vegetable peeler)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh or Frozen Cranberries (for syrup)
  • 6 fl oz High-Quality London Dry Gin
  • 4 fl oz Unsweetened Cranberry Juice
  • 5 fl oz Fresh Lime Juice
  • 4 fl oz Spiced Cranberry Syrup (chilled)
  • 12 fl oz Chilled Prosecco or Dry Sparkling Wine (Approx.)
  • 12 Fresh Cranberries (for garnish)
  • 4 slices Orange slices or wheels (for garnish)
  • 4 sprigs Rosemary sprigs (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Combine Syrup Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the water, sugar, star anise, cloves, cranberries, and orange zest strip. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. The cranberries should just start to burst.
  2. Steep: Remove the pan from the heat immediately. Allow the mixture to steep for 15–20 minutes to fully infuse the spices.
  3. Strain and Cool: Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into an airtight container, discarding the solids. Place the container in the refrigerator to cool completely (about 30 minutes). This step is crucial for a properly chilled cocktail.
  4. Chill Glasses: Chill the four serving glasses by filling them with ice or placing them in the freezer. Empty them before proceeding to the final assembly.
  5. Measure and Shake: In a cocktail shaker, combine the Gin, Unsweetened Cranberry Juice, Fresh Lime Juice, and the chilled Spiced Cranberry Syrup. Fill the shaker 3/4 full with fresh ice, seal tightly, and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds until the outside is frosty cold.
  6. Strain and Top: Double-strain the mixture evenly into the four prepared, chilled glasses, filling them approximately 2/3 full. Slowly top each drink with chilled Prosecco or sparkling wine until the glass is full.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish each drink with a few fresh cranberries, an orange slice, and a sprig of fresh rosemary. Serve immediately.