BASIL GIMLET
The cocktail of the summer! It’s bright, herbaceous and wonderfully refreshing — a modern take on the classic gimlet that pairs quality gin with fresh basil and cool cucumber for a clean, aromatic drink.
Ingredients
-
100
ml
good quality gin -
40
ml
lime juice -
20
basil leaves -
1/3
large cucumber
roughly chopped -
50
ml
simple syrup - ice
- to serve: extra cucumber
Instructions
-
Combine the gin, lime juice, basil, cucumber and simple syrup in a high-powered blender and blend until completely smooth.
-
Strain the liquid through a coffee filter or a muslin cloth into a cocktail shaker. This will take about 15 minutes – you can stir it gently to help it along, if needed. Discard the pulp left in the filter/cloth, then add a handful of ice into the shaker, clamp on the lid and shake until it has frosted on the outside.
-
Meanwhile, use a speed peeler to peel two thin long strips of cucumber. Lay each slice of cucumber around the inside of each of your coupe glasses and gently slice off any excess that protrudes over the side.
-
Strain the cocktail into your prepared glasses and enjoy immediately.
This Basil Gimlet is an elegant, easy-to-make cocktail that highlights fresh ingredients. The combination of bright lime, aromatic basil and cool cucumber keeps the drink light and balanced, while a good quality gin provides the backbone. It’s ideal for warm evenings, garden parties or anytime you want a cocktail that tastes like summer in a glass.
Tips for success
- Use fresh basil leaves for the best aroma. Avoid bruised or brown leaves.
- A high-powered blender helps achieve a silky texture, but a regular blender will work if you blend a little longer.
- Straining through a coffee filter or muslin removes fine solids for a clean, smooth cocktail. Be patient — pressing or forcing the pulp through can cloud the drink.
- Adjust the simple syrup to taste. If you prefer a tarter drink, reduce the syrup slightly; for a sweeter cocktail, add a touch more.
- Chill your glasses in the freezer for a few minutes before serving to keep the cocktail colder for longer.
Variations and serving ideas
Swap gin for vodka for a lighter botanical profile, or add a splash of elderflower liqueur for floral sweetness. For a smoky edge, try a small measure of mezcal mixed with the gin. Garnish with a sprig of basil or a thin cucumber wheel if you prefer a simpler presentation than the cucumber ribbon.
Storage and make-ahead
If you need to prepare in advance, blend and strain the mixture and keep it refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 24 hours. Shake with ice and strain into glasses just before serving to preserve the fresh basil flavour. Avoid making large batches too far ahead, as the bright herbal notes are best when fresh.
If you enjoy herb-forward cocktails, try experimenting with mint, cilantro or thyme in similar proportions to make your own variations on the gimlet template. Each herb will change the character of the drink in delicious ways, but basil and cucumber together remain a particularly crisp and refreshing pairing.