How to Make the Summer's Swan Song, a Gin Cocktail for Saying Goodbye 

• 2 oz gin
• 1/2 oz rich basil syrup
• 2 dash orange bitters
• 1 basil leaf
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup packed basil

In a small saucepan bring sugar and water to a boil. Once sugar dissolves, pour the hot sugar-water over basil in a blender. Blend the shit out of it as quickly as possible. (Under 5 minutes.) Strain, contain, let cool and refrigerate. Use to add a little zinger to your day whenever reality falls flat.

Pour all liquid ingredients into a mixing glass with ice. Stir sensationally for 25-30 seconds. Strain into a lowball over ice. Garnish with a basil leaf and savor the sunset over yesterday’s ambitions.

David is an artist from Ridgewood, Queens, that makes drinks, drawings, and questionable decisions in the name of scientific regress. You can find him bartending at Huckleberry Bar when he isn’t at his drafting table. Follow him @drawdavedraw.