Cranberry simple syrup:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water, sugar, and cranberries.
2. Heat until it comes to a boil, stirring occasionally, then simmer for 5-10 minutes. During the last minute or two of cooking, I add the zest of a few kumquats (it’s hard to get all of the zest off, obviously, so just a few swipes to release the essential oils) and then throw them in whole – they’ll permeate the syrup while cooling.
3. Remove from heat and let cool.
4. Strain into a glass jar and discard the cranberries/kumquats.

Drinks:

1. Add the sliced kumquats into a cocktail shaker.
2. Muddle them to break them up and release their flavors.
3. Add the tequila, triple sec, and cranberry simple syrup and a little ice and shake well. Strain into a cocktail glass with ice.
4. Garnish with extra kumquat slices (I also added the ones from the shaker in for extra flavor); you can also salt the rim of the glasses if desired.