Step 1

In a small saucepan, combine the water and sugar and stir. Measure out 1 packed cup of washed, torn basil leaves. Peel the zest of one lemon with a vegetable peeler or zester into long strips. Add the basil and lemon peel to the syrup and heat on medium-low until simmering. Let the syrup simmer 1 minute and remove from heat. Allow the syrup to completely cool to room temperature, strain through a fine mesh strainer, and refrigerate.

Step 2

In a cocktail shaker, combine the lemon slices and basil leaves. Muddle. Add ice, whiskey, and basil syrup to the shaker and shake well to combine. Pour the cocktail over crushed ice and top with a splash of club soda. Garnish with additional basil, basil flowers, and lemon. Enjoy!