Pear, Ginger & Thyme Martini

To make the ginger syrup, combine the water, sugar and ginger in a pot. Simmer slowly on the stove top for 5-10 minutes until the sugar has completely dissolved. Let cool and then transfer to a sealed container (with the ginger pieces). Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the ginger flavor to steep into the syrup. Note that you’ll have more ginger syrup than you need for one cocktail but it also makes a wonderful sweetener for hot or iced tea.

To make the cocktail, combine the ginger syrup and thyme in a cocktail shaker and muddle together. Add the vodka, pear juice and lemon juice. Fill with ice and shake well. Pour into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a sprig of thyme.