This pear cocktail is light and crisp from the fresh pear and citrus, but the rum, star anise and rosemary add just enough warmth to make it feel right for colder weather. It’s more of a slow sipper – something to enjoy by the fire, with a good book or quiet company.

Ingredients

• 100 ml white rum
• 60 ml pear liqueur (or pear schnapps – Williams Birne Pear Schnapps works well with this recipe)
• 30 ml simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 15 ml fresh lemon juice
• 2-4 whole star anise
• Ice cubes
• Sparkling water or tonic (optional, to top up)
• Fresh pear slices (for garnish)
• Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)

Method

1. Fill two short glasses with ice while you prepare the cocktail.
2.  In a cocktail shaker, combine rum, pear liqueur, simple syrup, and lemon juice. Add a handful of ice and shake for about 20 seconds until well chilled.
3. Drop a star anise into each serving glass for a subtle spiced note.
4. Strain the cocktail into the prepared glasses over fresh ice. If you prefer a lighter drink, top with a splash of sparkling water or tonic.
5.  Add a thin pear slice and a rosemary sprig to each glass.

Tip: To elevate the flavour, lightly smack the rosemary sprig before adding it.