Cherry Lime Gin Rickey

For syrup: Combine 1 cup cherries, the sugar and 1/2 cup water in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer, stirring to dissolve sugar. Simmer 5 minutes, crushing cherries with a spoon to release juices. Remove from heat; let steep 10 minutes. Strain and chill syrup. 

For one cocktail: In a cocktail shaker, muddle 1/2 cup cherries with lime juice. Add gin and 1 1/2 ounces of the syrup. Fill shaker with ice, cover and shake until well chilled. Strain into an ice-filled glass and top with club soda. Garnish with a whole cherry and lime slice.