Combine all the ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Fill with ice, shake well and pour into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a wedge of lime or a thinly sliced piece of pear.
If making with the spiced syrup, omit the elderflower liquor and substitute 3-5 ounces of syrup, depending on how spiced you like it.
TO MAKE THE SPICED SYRUP: Add all ingredients - sugar, water, star anise, cardamom pods and cinnamon stick - to a small heavy bottomed pan. Bring to a simmer, stir until sugar dissolves and continue to simmer for additional 10-15 minutes. Let cool. Store in airtight container in your fridge.