Gin Basil Smash Cocktail: A Green, Garden-Fresh Stunner That Packs a Citrus Punch

Cocktail Description

The Gin Basil Smash is a modern herbal masterpiece — crisp, zesty, and impossibly green. It’s a refreshing mix of gin, fresh basil, lemon juice, and simple syrup, shaken to perfection and served over ice. With its bold color and garden-fresh aroma, this drink is as photogenic as it is delicious — a cocktail that feels both upscale and laid-back, like summer in a glass.

Origins & History

Created in 2008 by German bartender Jörg Meyer at Le Lion Bar in Hamburg, the Gin Basil Smash was inspired by the whiskey smash but took a botanical leap with gin and basil. Meyer originally named it the "Gin Pesto," but changed it to "Gin Basil Smash" for international appeal.

It quickly gained popularity across Europe and the U.S., becoming a modern classic — especially for those who love their cocktails herbaceous and bold.

Ingredients

• 2 oz London Dry Gin

• ¾ oz Fresh Lemon Juice

• ¾ oz Simple Syrup

• 8–10 Fresh Basil Leaves

Garnish: Basil sprig
Glassware: Rocks glass
Ice: Crushed or large cubes

How to Make a Gin Basil Smash

1. Gently muddle basil leaves in a shaker.

2. Add gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.

3. Fill with ice and shake hard for 15 seconds.

4. Double strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.

5. Garnish with a fresh basil sprig.

Pro Tip: Use fresh, vibrant basil — it’s the soul of the drink.

Flavor Profile

• Herbaceous & Bright – Fresh basil delivers an aromatic punch.

• Citrusy & Crisp – Lemon juice gives it that refreshing edge.

• Botanical & Balanced – Gin and sugar round out the flavors.

Variations to Try

• Cucumber Basil Smash – Add muddled cucumber for a spa-like twist.

• Spicy Basil Smash – Add a thin slice of jalapeño to the shaker.

• Berry Basil Smash – Muddle in raspberries or blackberries for color and fruitiness.

• Mint Basil Smash – Blend fresh mint with basil for a layered herbal flavor.

Best Times to Serve

• Summer BBQs – Cool and refreshing for hot days.

• Brunches – A vibrant, non-traditional brunch cocktail.

• Garden Parties – Elegant and colorfully green.

• Gin Tastings – Showcases the gin’s botanicals beautifully.

💬 Fun Fact

Even though it was invented in Germany, the Gin Basil Smash is often mistaken for a classic cocktail due to its popularity and simplicity. It's one of the few drinks that made basil mainstream in cocktails, earning it a spot on menus worldwide.