Spiced Syrup

It's the season of parties. Sometimes it's nice to give/get something other than a bottle of wine. I was going over to my friend Alice's last weekend and wanted to bring over a little hostess present. I always make ginger simple syrup for dark and stormies, but I wanted to make a spiced ginger syrup to be warming and holiday-inspired. This makes about 2 cups and it's great in cocktails. 

Ingredients:

2 cups water

1 1/2 cups sugar

1/2 cup dark brown sugar

1 cinnamon stick

2 cardamom pods

1 1/2" of fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced

A pinch nutmeg

A pinch allspice

3 cloves

3 peppercorns

Directions:

Mix all ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and simmer, covered, for 10 minutes. Let steep and cool, covered, for an hour or so. Strain and pour into bottles or jars. 

It's a great addition to a bourbon and soda.