Mint Basil Smash
A modern classic that propelled fresh basil into the global cocktail lexicon. This vibrant, herbaceous gin cocktail marries muddled basil with gin, creating a drink that is both refreshingly simple and profoundly flavorful.
22%
ABV
186
Calories
Rocks
Glass
Flavor Profile
Flavor Journey
History & Heritage
“The Gin Basil Smash was invented in summer 2008 by Jörg Meyer at Le Lion • Bar de Paris in Hamburg, Germany. Inspired by Dale DeGroff's Whiskey Smash after a trip to New York's Pegu Club, Meyer experimented with replacing mint with basil. Initially called "Gin Pesto" for its vibrant green color, the cocktail won "Best New Cocktail" at the 2008 Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards and became one of the first cocktails to go "viral" through social media.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Place the basil leaves and stems into a cocktail shaker
Add the fresh lemon juice
Thoroughly muddle the basil and lemon juice together to release oils and chlorophyll
Add the gin and simple syrup to the shaker
Fill the shaker with ice
Shake vigorously for 12-15 seconds until well-chilled
Double-strain into a chilled Old Fashioned glass filled with fresh ice
Garnish with a fresh, aromatic sprig of basil
Glassware
Served on the rocks in an Old Fashioned glass
Garnish
Gently slap against palm to release oils
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Use generous amounts of fresh basil - better too much than not enough
Muddle vigorously to extract oils and achieve vibrant green color
Always double-strain to remove basil debris
Serve immediately while ice-cold for best aroma
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Mint Basil Smash.
Other Variations
Sweeter Version
Increase simple syrup for a less tart profile.
Changes
Love Version
Jörg Meyer's spirit-forward version: '7 cl Gin is LOVE!'
Changes
Gin Basil Highball
Topped with soda water for a longer, more effervescent drink.
Changes
Rosemary Basil Smash
Addition of rosemary introduces piney, woody complexity.
Changes
More to Explore
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Strawberry Basil Smash
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Bourbon Basil Smash
A modern classic that brilliantly marries American whiskey tradition with vibrant, herbaceous character. This descendant of the Gin Basil Smash swaps botanical gin for bourbon's rich vanilla and caramel, creating a refreshing yet complex cocktail.
Gin Basil Smash
A modern classic that showcases vibrant fresh basil with London Dry gin and lemon—intensely aromatic, refreshingly green, and beautifully balanced.