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The Gin Basil Smash: A Modern Classic Cocktail

The Gin Basil Smash has quickly become a modern classic in the cocktail world, captivating drinkers with its vibrant green hue and refreshing taste. This simple yet brilliant concoction has an interesting origin story and has spread rapidly across the globe since its creation.

Origins and History

The Gin Basil Smash was invented in 2008 by German bartender Jörg Meyer at Le Lion bar in Hamburg, Germany. 1 10

Meyer originally called his creation the “Gin Pesto,” a fitting name for this basil-forward drink. Over time, the name evolved to describe its preparation method, as “smashes” are a category of cocktails that involve muddling fresh herbs and/or citrus. Interestingly, around the same time, another bartender named Sproll independently created a similar drink in Ulm, Germany, which he called simply the “Basil Smash”. While both versions gained popularity in their respective locales, it was Meyer’s recipe and savvy use of social media that propelled the Gin Basil Smash to international acclaim.

The Classic Recipe

The International Bartenders Association approves the following recipe for the Gin Basil Smash5:

  • 50ml gin (preferably London Dry)
  • 25ml fresh lemon juice
  • 15ml simple syrup
  • 8-10 fresh basil leaves
  • Ice

Instructions:

  1. Muddle the basil leaves in a shaker
  2. Add gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup
  3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously
  4. Double strain into an ice-filled rocks glass
  5. Garnish with a basil leaf

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Gin: The backbone of the cocktail, providing botanical notes that complement the basil. London Dry Gin is often recommended, though some prefer more contemporary styles9.

Basil: The star of the show, imparting a fresh, herbaceous flavor and the drink’s signature green color. Meyer advises using more rather than less basil1.
Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the syrup.Simple Syrup: Provides sweetness to round out the flavors.

Variations and Twists

The Gin Basil Smash’s simplicity lends itself well to experimentation. Some popular variations include:

  1. Blueberry Gin Basil Smash: Adding muddled blueberries for a fruity twist2.
  2. Gin Black Basil: Incorporating Limoncello and pineapple syrup for a tropical flair8.
  3. Mediterranean Gin Tea: Using Limoncello and tonic water for a refreshing, bubbly version8.

Tips for the Perfect Gin Basil Smash

  1. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially the basil leaves7.
  2. Don’t be shy with the basil – a generous amount ensures a vibrant color and flavor1.
  3. Double straining helps remove small basil particles, resulting in a smoother drink7.
  4. Experiment with different gin styles to find your preferred flavor profile9.

Cultural Impact

The Gin Basil Smash has become a global phenomenon, winning “Best New Cocktail” at the 2008 Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards9. Its popularity stems from its simplicity, refreshing taste, and visual appeal. The drink has found its way onto bar menus worldwide and has become a favorite among both professional bartenders and home mixologists.In conclusion, the Gin Basil Smash represents the perfect blend of simplicity and innovation in modern mixology. Its rapid rise to fame is a testament to the power of a well-crafted recipe and the global connectivity of the bartending community. Whether you’re enjoying it on a hot summer day or as an any-season refresher, the Gin Basil Smash offers a delightful experience that continues to captivate cocktail enthusiasts around the world.