Gin Basil Smash
A bright, aromatic gin cocktail combining fresh basil, lemon and cane sugar syrup. Herbal, citrusy and refreshing, with a smooth texture and vivid fresh character.
Gin Basil Smash Recipe
- Dry gin 50 ml
- Lemon juice 25 ml
- Cane sugar syrup 25 ml
- Cocktail foamer 3 drops
- Fresh basil 10 leaves
- Ice 150 g, optional
Make it properly
- Add the fresh basil, lemon juice and cane sugar syrup to a shaker.
- Gently muddle the basil to release its fresh aroma and colour.
- Add the gin, Fee Foam if using, and plenty of ice.
- Shake hard for 15–20 seconds until thoroughly chilled.
- Double strain into a chilled coupe, or into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish with fresh basil.
WHAT MAKES A GOOD GIN BASIL SMASH?
A good Gin Basil Smash is fresh, aromatic and well balanced. Gin provides the botanical base, lemon brings bright acidity and sugar syrup softens the citrus, while fresh basil gives the cocktail its distinctive herbal character and vibrant freshness.
Shaking the basil with the other ingredients helps release its aroma and flavour. Shake hard with plenty of ice, then strain well for a smooth, refreshing cocktail with a bright herbal finish.
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Gin Basil Smash: RECIPE, INGREDIENTS & TIPS
A practical guide to making a Gin Basil Smash, from choosing the right gin and fresh basil to balancing lemon, sweetness and vibrant herbal character.
THE STORY OF THE GIN BASIL SMASH
The Gin Basil Smash is a modern cocktail created in Hamburg, Germany, by bartender Jörg Meyer in 2008. Built around gin, fresh basil, lemon juice and sugar syrup, it quickly became known for its distinctive green colour and fresh herbal character.
Its appeal comes from a simple balance: gin provides the botanical base, lemon brings bright acidity, sugar softens the citrus and fresh basil gives the cocktail its unmistakable aroma, flavour and colour.
THE BEST INGREDIENTS FOR A GIN BASIL SMASH
A good Gin Basil Smash starts with a gin that has enough botanical character to remain noticeable alongside fresh basil and lemon. Fresh basil is central to the drink, while lemon juice provides acidity and cane sugar syrup balances the citrus.
For Drinkero’s classic version, we recommend Tanqueray London Dry Gin for its crisp, juniper-forward character. For a more floral, aromatic variation, upgrade to Hendrick’s Gin, whose cucumber and rose notes pair particularly well with fresh basil.
Complete the drink with lemon juice, MONIN Pure Cane Sugar Syrup and fresh basil. Fee Foam can be added optionally for a smoother, foamier presentation.
HOW TO MAKE A FRESH GIN BASIL SMASH
Add the basil, lemon juice and cane sugar syrup to a shaker and gently muddle the leaves to release their aroma, flavour and colour. Add the gin, optional cocktail foamer and plenty of ice, then shake hard until thoroughly chilled.
Double strain into a chilled coupe, or serve over fresh ice in a rocks glass. Double straining helps remove small pieces of basil and ice, giving the finished cocktail a smoother texture while retaining its fresh herbal character.
Questions about the Gin Basil Smash
What gin is best for a Gin Basil Smash?
A classic London Dry Gin works particularly well because its botanical and juniper character stands up to fresh basil and lemon. Drinkero recommends Tanqueray London Dry Gin.
What type of basil should I use?
Use fresh sweet basil, the common green basil widely available in supermarkets. Choose fresh, aromatic leaves without significant wilting or discolouration.
Should you muddle the basil?
Yes. Gently muddling the basil helps release its aroma, flavour and green colour. You don't need to pulverise the leaves; press them sufficiently to release their character before shaking.
Do I need cocktail foamer?
No. A Gin Basil Smash can be made without foamer. Drinkero lists Fee Foam as optional for customers who prefer a smoother texture and more pronounced foam.
Why should I double strain a Gin Basil Smash?
Double straining means pouring through the shaker strainer and a fine-mesh strainer. It catches small pieces of basil and ice, producing a cleaner, smoother finished cocktail.
Can I make Gin Basil Smashes for a group?
Yes. The gin, lemon juice and cane sugar syrup can be measured in advance, but muddle the fresh basil and shake the cocktails close to serving. Drinkero calculates the quantities you need for 6, 12, 24 or 48 Gin Basil Smashes.
Is the Gin Basil Smash an official IBA cocktail?
Yes. The Gin Basil Smash is included in the International Bartenders Association’s official cocktail list as a New Era cocktail. See the IBA’s official Gin Basil Smash recipe for the classic specification.