This basil gin and tonic is a really simple twist on a classic. Fresh basil muddled in the glass, a squeeze of lime, a splash of homemade lime cordial, and topped with tonic water.
About this recipe
This is a gin and tonic with fresh basil muddled in the glass before the ice goes in. It sounds like a small change but it makes a big difference to the flavor because the basil adds a savory, slightly sweet herby note that pairs really well with the gin and the bitterness of tonic water.
Fresh lime juice brightens everything up and stops it tasting flat. I also like to add a small splash of homemade lime cordial which adds a concentrated lime sweetness that works really well in here. Whether you need it depends on your tonic, some are quite sweet already, others are quite dry, so taste it first before adding. Plain simple syrup works too if that’s what you have.
The basil needs to be pressed gently and not shredded. A few light presses with a muddler or the back of a spoon is enough to release the oils. Over-muddling turns basil bitte and it will ruin the drink. For more gin cocktail ideas, browse my gin cocktail recipes.
Method
- Add the basil leaves to the bottom of a copa or rocks glass.
- Press the basil gently a few times to release the oils.
- Fill the glass with ice. Add the gin, lime juice, and simple syrup if using.
- Top with tonic water and stir very gently once or twice.
- Garnish with a fresh basil leaf and a lime wedge (fresh or dried).
Tips
- Press the basil gently. A few light presses is enough.
- Good tonic matters. The tonic is a big part of this drink so use one you actually like the taste of.
- Stir gently. Tonic water loses its fizz quickly so stir just once or twice after topping up.
- Mocktail version. Leave out the gin and add an extra 1.5 oz (45ml) of tonic water. The basil, lime, and tonic still make a really good drink.
Variations
- Strawberry basil gin and tonic: Add a splash of strawberry basil syrup for a fruity twist.
- Cucumber basil gin and tonic: Muddle a couple of thin cucumber slices in with the basil for something more refreshing.
- Lavender basil: A splash of honey lavender syrup in place of simple syrup adds a floral note that works really well.
Related recipes
- Thyme Gimlet – another herby gin cocktail
- Elderflower Gin Sour – floral and delicate
- Foghorn Cocktail – gin and ginger beer
- Bee’s Knees Cocktail – classic gin with honey and lemon
- Strawberry Basil Syrup – great addition to this drink
Basil Gin and Tonic
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz gin
- 4 oz tonic water
- 0.25 oz fresh lime juice
- 4 fresh basil leaves
- 0.25 oz lime cordial or simple syrup, optional, depending on sweetness of tonic
- ice
- fresh basil and a lime wedge to garnish
Instructions
- Add the basil leaves to the bottom of a copa or rocks glass.
- Press the basil gently a few times to release the oils.
- Fill the glass with ice.
- Add the gin, lime juice, and lime cordial or simple syrup if using.
- Top with tonic water and stir very gently once or twice.
- Garnish with a fresh basil leaf and a lime wedge.
