Some of the best drinks are the simplest, and while the artisanal cocktail thing has tended to leave vodka drinking to the amateurs, the fact remains that it's an easy way to to turn a few fresh ingredients into a cocktail, without the addition of too many extra flavors. What's that you say? You like layers of complexity in every cocktail? Yeah, well, sometimes we just want a vodka lemonade, alright?

Below, a straight-up twist on a vodka lemonade, from E&O Trading Company, with the addition of anise-y Thai basil, that makes for a great summer evening sipper.

Thai Basil Lemon Martini

2 oz Stoli vodka
0.75 oz simple syrup
0.75 oz lemon juice
10 to 12 Thai Basil Leaves

Muddle the basil with the lemon juice in a shaker. Add the other ingredients, fill with ice, and shake vigorously at least 20 times. Double-strain into a cocktail glass or coupe. Garnish with a basil leaf and lemon twist.