<b>Make the simple syrup:</b>  In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and black pepper over medium heat.  Stir together until the sugar fully dissolves, and bring to a simmer.

Cool completely.  You can either make this ahead, or pour it into a glass sitting inside a shallower bowl of ice water (so it will cool quickly).

Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve and discard black pepper.  This will keep in the fridge for 2-3 weeks.

<b>Make the drink:</b>  Dice the strawberries into chunks and place in the bottom of your large rocks glass.  Muddle the strawberries using a muddler (or the end of a wooden spoon).

In a cocktail shaker, add lots of ice, the lime juice, syrup, and gin.  Shake for 10-15 seconds.

Strain the mixture into the glass with the muddled strawberries.  Discard the ice. 

Then pour the strawberry and liquid mixture BACK into the (now empty) cocktail shaker.  Give it a few good shakes. 

Add ice to your rocks glass and pour the full cocktail shaker back into the glass (don't strain). 

If desired (I strongly recommend!) add a drizzle of basil simple syrup to the top of the glass.  Top with soda water, and give it a gentle stir.  Enjoy!  (Tip:  make sure you eat the strawberries!!)