1-First, blend the cranberries with 3 cups of water on high for at least 3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and deep red.

2-Once blended, strain it through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer into a large pitcher to remove any solids.

3-Next, stir in ½ cup of honey until it’s fully dissolved, then add 3 sprigs of fresh thyme and 1 inch of fresh ginger; let this infuse in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best taste.

4-After infusion, remove the thyme and ginger to keep the flavors balanced.

5-For the cocktail, fill a glass with ice and add 3 ounces of the cranberry infused water, 2 ounces of fresh orange juice, 1 ounce of elderflower liqueur, and 1 ounce of vodka; stir gently to mix.

6-If you’re making the mocktail, simply use the same amounts of infused water and orange juice without the alcohol, and stir well over ice.

7-Garnish both versions with fresh cranberries or star anise for a nice touch.