Strawberry-Ginger Punch

• 1/3 cup sugar
• 12 ounces fresh strawberries, hulled, halved or quartered if large (about 3 cups), divided
• 1 3" piece ginger, peeled, thinly sliced, divided
• 1/2 cup (packed) fresh basil leaves, divided
• 1 1/2 cups brandy
• 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 2 12-ounce cans club soda

1. Combine sugar, 1/2 cup strawberries, half of ginger, and 1/3 cup water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve sugar. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until berries soften, about 3 minutes. Let cool. Strain and set syrup aside.
2. Muddle 2 cups strawberries, 1/4 cup basil, and remaining ginger in a large jar or bowl. Add brandy, lime juice, and reserved syrup and stir to combine. Chill at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours to let flavors meld.
3. Strain mixture into a large punch bowl, pressing on solids to release as much liquid as possible.
4. Add club soda and remaining 1/2 cup strawberries and 1/4 cup basil. Serve over ice.
5. DO AHEAD:

sugar, fresh strawberries, ginger, fresh basil, brandy, lime juice, club soda

Taken from www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/strawberry-ginger-punch-51170020 (may not work)