Muddled basil turns a simple, 19th-century gin cocktail into a modern classic. Prairie Rose is Food & Wine's senior drinks editor. A trained sommelier, cocktail book author, and wine and spirits ...

Make the lemon-basil syrup: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, combine water, sugar and salt. Bring to a simmer, stirring to dissolve sugar. Remove from heat, stir in basil and steep 10 ...