Gingerbread martini

Start by making the Gingerbread Syrup:

1) Simmer water, sugar, ginger, cloves and cinnamon for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until reduced to about 175 ml.

2) Pour hot syrup through a fine sieve and chill. Leave to stand for 20 minutes before using, to allow all sediment to settle at the bottom.

To make one Martini:

3) Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the vodka and gingerbread syrup. Cover and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds,until combined and chilled. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.