Step 1

First, make the purple basil syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water, and heat over medium until the sugar dissolves completely.

Step 2

Add in the purple basil leaves, and remove pan from heat. Allow mixture to cool, then remove basil leaves and pour into a glass jar to store.

Step 3

To make a cocktail, prepare a glass with some crushed ice. Mix together the basil syrup and lemon juice, and pour into cup. Top with the sparkling water, and finish with the Empress 1908 Gin on top. Garnish with basil leaves and flowers, if desired, and serve immediately.