Basil vodka gimlets

1. To make Basil Lemon Syrup:
Bring ingredients to a boil in a medium saucepan, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Let stand at room temperature until cool then transfer to an airtight container and chill until cold, about 1 hour. Strain syrup thourough a sieve into a bowl, pressing hard on and then discarding solids. Refrigerate. Keeps for 3-4 weeks.

2. To make gimlets:
Stir together all ingredients in a pitcher until cold.
Strain into 8 to 10-ounce glasses (such as old fashioned glasses) half-filled with ice. Garnish.

3. Summer in a glass!