Gin Basil Smash

Gin · Rocks

Jörg Meyer's 2008 Hamburg creation — gin, lemon, and fresh basil smashed hard until the oils release, a new-classic of the German cocktail revival.

GlassRocks
GarnishNone
ABV18%
Categorymodern
Flavorherbal, citrus, modern, aromatic

Ingredients

  • Gin2 oz
  • Fresh Lemon Juice1 oz
  • Simple Syrup0.75 oz
  • Fresh Basil8 leaves
  • Basil Sprig1 piece

Method

  1. Gently slap basil leaves and place in shaker
  2. Add gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup
  3. Fill with ice and shake hard
  4. Double strain into rocks glass over fresh ice
  5. Garnish with basil sprig

Pro Tips

  • Jörg Meyer's 2008 creation at Le Lion in Hamburg — a modern classic.
  • Fresh basil leaves muddled hard release oils; don't be shy.
  • Strain through a fine mesh to catch pulverized basil bits — pretty matters.