Combine all of the syrup ingredients in a small saucepan.
Bring to a boil, crushing basil leaves against side of pan to bring out flavor.
Simmer just until sugar has dissolved. Let cool.
Strain into jar. Keep unused portion in refrigerator.
Cocktail
Fill a small pitcher with cut-up fruit such as mango, peaches, lemons, raspberries or strawberries (optional).
Pour wine, mango or peach nectar, lemon juice and simple syrup over fruit.
Divide between 2 glasses filled with ice.
Garnish with basil leaf and slice of mango, peach or lemon.
Notes
This can be made in a large pitcher for a party using the entire bottle of wine.For the Basil Simple Syrup, follow instructions in recipe and use ¾ cup sugar, ¾ cup water and 1 cup basil leaves.For the cocktail: Mix 1 bottle Pinot Grigio or unoaked Chardonnay, 2-½ cups mango nectar, ¼ cup lemon juice and all of simple syrup. Serves 6.