The Gin Basil Smash is a vibrant, herbaceous cocktail that combines gin, fresh basil, lemon juice, and simple syrup for a drink that’s both refreshing and sophisticated. Known for its vivid green color and fresh aroma, this cocktail has quickly become a favorite among gin lovers and mixologists alike. Created in Germany in the early 2000s, the Gin Basil Smash is often described as a cross between a classic sour and a gin mojito, with a twist that feels both modern and timeless. Let’s explore the history, unique qualities, and recipe for crafting the perfect Gin Basil Smash at home.
The Origins of the Gin Basil Smash
The Gin Basil Smash was created in 2008 by Jörg Meyer, a bartender at Le Lion Bar de Paris in Hamburg, Germany. Inspired by classic whiskey smashes, Meyer experimented with fresh herbs and gin, ultimately choosing basil for its fresh, slightly peppery notes that pair beautifully with gin’s botanicals. The drink was initially called the Basil Smash, but it was soon renamed the Gin Basil Smash due to its heavy gin influence.
Meyer’s creation became an instant hit and won the Cocktail Award for Best New Cocktail in 2008, solidifying its status as a modern classic. Today, the Gin Basil Smash is celebrated worldwide for its simplicity, unique flavor profile, and eye-catching color, making it a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast.
What Makes the Gin Basil Smash So Unique
The Gin Basil Smash is a standout cocktail for several reasons:
- Herbaceous Flavor Profile: The use of fresh basil gives the drink a bright, slightly peppery taste that balances perfectly with the citrusy lemon and the botanicals in gin.
- Vibrant Color: Muddling the basil releases its natural green color, creating a strikingly vivid cocktail that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
- Modern Yet Classic: With its balanced, refreshing flavors, the Gin Basil Smash feels like a modern twist on the classic gin sour, making it approachable for both gin lovers and newcomers.
How to Make the Perfect Gin Basil Smash
The Gin Basil Smash requires just a few simple ingredients and a bit of muddling to bring out the fresh basil flavors. Here’s the classic recipe for this refreshing cocktail.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz (6 cl) gin
- ¾ oz (2.25 cl) fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz (1.5 cl) simple syrup
- 8–10 fresh basil leaves
- Ice
- Basil sprig or lemon twist for garnish
Instructions:
- Muddle the Basil: In a cocktail shaker, add the basil leaves and muddle them gently to release the oils and color. Avoid over-muddling to prevent bitterness.
- Add the Ingredients: Add the gin, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Shake with Ice: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 10–15 seconds to chill and mix the ingredients.
- Strain and Serve: Double strain the mixture into a chilled rocks glass over fresh ice. Double straining ensures that no basil bits end up in the final drink.
- Garnish: Garnish with a sprig of fresh basil or a lemon twist for added aroma and a touch of color.
Tip: For an even brighter green color, muddle the basil more intensely, but remember to be gentle to avoid bitterness from the stems.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
- Gin: A gin with a balanced botanical profile works best in the Gin Basil Smash. London Dry gins like Tanqueray or Beefeater offer a classic juniper-forward flavor, while a more herbaceous gin like Hendrick’s can add a unique twist.
- Fresh Basil: Fresh, fragrant basil is essential for this cocktail. Look for basil leaves that are bright green and aromatic to ensure the best flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides the acidity that balances the sweetness of the simple syrup and complements the herbal notes of the basil and gin.
- Simple Syrup: Simple syrup is easy to make at home by dissolving equal parts sugar and water. It adds a touch of sweetness that rounds out the cocktail without overpowering the basil.
- Garnish: A basil sprig or lemon twist enhances the drink’s visual appeal and aroma, making it even more inviting.
Tips for Perfecting Your Gin Basil Smash
- Double Strain for Smoothness: Double straining removes small basil bits, ensuring a smooth, clean drink that’s easy to sip.
- Use Fresh, Quality Basil: Since basil is the star of this cocktail, using fresh, high-quality basil makes a noticeable difference in flavor and aroma.
- Experiment with Gins: Try different types of gin to explore how their botanical profiles interact with the basil. A citrus-forward gin will make the cocktail brighter, while an herbal gin will add depth.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Start with ½ oz of simple syrup, but feel free to adjust to taste depending on how sweet you prefer your cocktail.
Gin Basil Smash Variations to Try
While the classic Gin Basil Smash is delightful as it is, here are a few variations to explore:
- Cucumber Basil Smash: Muddle a few slices of fresh cucumber with the basil for a refreshing, cooling twist on the classic recipe.
- Basil Smash with Elderflower: Substitute the simple syrup with elderflower liqueur for a floral twist that adds sweetness and depth to the cocktail.
- Spicy Basil Smash: Muddle a few slices of fresh jalapeño with the basil for a spicy version that’s perfect for those who enjoy a kick of heat in their cocktails.
- Berry Basil Smash: Add a few fresh berries (such as strawberries or blackberries) to the muddling process for a fruity twist that complements the basil’s herbal notes.
- Mezcal Basil Smash: Replace the gin with mezcal for a smoky, earthy variation that adds a unique depth to the herbaceous cocktail.
When to Serve the Gin Basil Smash
The Gin Basil Smash’s light, refreshing profile and vibrant appearance make it suitable for a variety of occasions:
- Brunch: This cocktail’s fresh, herbaceous flavor makes it an excellent choice for brunch, pairing well with lighter dishes and refreshing the palate.
- Summer Gatherings: With its bright, citrusy taste, the Gin Basil Smash is a fantastic option for summer barbecues, picnics, or any outdoor gathering.
- Aperitivo or Pre-Dinner Drink: The balanced acidity and herbal notes make the Gin Basil Smash an ideal aperitivo, setting the stage for a delicious meal.
- Casual Evenings: This cocktail’s simplicity and fresh flavor make it a great choice for casual evenings or at-home happy hours with friends.
Why You Should Try the Gin Basil Smash
The Gin Basil Smash is a cocktail that brings a unique, herb-forward twist to classic gin cocktails, offering a refreshing alternative to traditional sours and highballs. With its vibrant color, balanced sweetness, and fresh basil aroma, the Gin Basil Smash is an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing drink that feels both sophisticated and fun.
For fans of gin or anyone looking to try a cocktail with a modern twist, the Gin Basil Smash is a must-try. Its approachable, refreshing flavors make it perfect for any season, and its versatility offers endless opportunities for creative variations.
So next time you’re in the mood for a cocktail that’s fresh, herbaceous, and effortlessly cool, mix up a Gin Basil Smash, raise your glass, and toast to the beauty of simplicity in modern mixology. Cheers!