How do I make simple syrup at home?

Combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan, heat gently while stirring until the sugar dissolves, then cool and store in the fridge. It keeps for a week or more.

Can I use any type of gin?

Absolutely! While a London Dry gin is traditional, feel free to experiment with gins that have pronounced herbal or citrus notes. Just avoid overly sweet or heavy gins, as they can overpower the basil.

Can I substitute another herb for basil?

Definitely! Mint, cilantro, or even rosemary can create a unique twist. Each herb will bring its own character, so taste as you go to find your perfect match.

Why double strain the cocktail?

Double straining removes tiny basil bits and ice shards, resulting in a smoother, more polished final drink. It ensures you get all the flavor without any unwanted texture.

Gin Basil Smash

Name: Gin Basil Smash
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1 serving
Cuisine: Cocktail
Ingredients: 2 oz Gin; 0.75 oz Fresh lemon juice; 0.75 oz Simple syrup; 8 Fresh basil leaves

The Gin Basil Smash is a vibrant, herbaceous cocktail that brings together the freshness of basil, the punch of gin, and the brightness of lemon. It's a modern classic that's as visually appealing as it is refreshing, perfect for sunny afternoons or lively evenings with friends.

5 minutesEasy1 serving

Featured

Ingredients

1 serving

Gin
60 ml (2 oz)
Choose a London Dry or a bright, herbal gin
Fresh lemon juice
25 ml (0.75 oz)
Freshly squeezed for best flavor
Simple syrup
25 ml (0.75 oz)
1:1 ratio of sugar to water
Fresh basil leaves
8
Plus extra for garnish

Tools Needed

Cocktail shaker
Muddler
Fine strainer
Jigger
Rocks glass

Instructions

Add the basil leaves and simple syrup to a shaker. Gently muddle to release the basil's aroma and oils, but avoid shredding the leaves.
Pour in the gin and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Add ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well-chilled.
Double strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice, using both the shaker's strainer and a fine mesh strainer to catch basil bits.
Garnish with a vibrant sprig of basil, giving it a gentle slap to release its aroma before placing it in the drink.

Why You'll Love This Cocktail

Bright, fresh basil flavor that's irresistible in warm weather
Simple ingredients and easy preparation
Visually stunning with a vibrant green hue
Balanced and refreshing—never too sweet or too strong
Versatile: easily customized with different gins or herbs

History & Origin

Created in 2008 by Jörg Meyer at Le Lion Bar in Hamburg, Germany, the Gin Basil Smash quickly became a sensation in the global cocktail scene. Inspired by the Whiskey Smash, Meyer swapped whiskey for gin and muddled fresh basil leaves to create a drink that burst with green, aromatic flavors. Its simple yet bold profile helped spark a renewed interest in herb-driven cocktails, and it remains a favorite in craft bars worldwide.

Garnish

A fresh sprig of basil—slap it gently before garnishing to intensify the herbal aroma and enhance the drinking experience.

Nutrition Info

Approximately 180-200 calories per serving; low in fat and protein, with about 15-20g of carbohydrates mainly from sugar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Cocktails

Tom Collins Clover Club Whiskey SmashSouthsideFrench 75Bee's Knees