The Gin Basil Smash is a refreshing modern classic composed of gin, freshly squeezed lemon juice, simple syrup, and fresh basil leaves.
In 2008, bartender Joerg Meyer created the drink at his Hamburg, Germany, cocktail bar Le Lion, first naming it the Gin Pesto. Soon after, Meyer changed the name to the more appetizing Gin Basil Smash, and the drink took off. The famed bar steadily sells thousands of the vibrantly green cocktails every month. Though the drink was never as popular in the United States, it remains a favorite across Germany and Europe.
According to Meyer, the idea for the drink took root while visiting New York City’s Pegu Club in 2007, and trying Dale DeGroff’s Whiskey Smash variation for the first time. Inspired by that revived classic and the rise in culinary-style cocktails, Meyer turned to fresh basil and gin to create his own spin on the simple drink.
Why the Gin Basil Smash works
The build for a smash cocktail first follows the sour formula of spirit, citrus and sugar, and then creates further complexity and flavor with the addition of muddled citrus and herbs.
The gin base sets the tone for a bright and aromatic cocktail. The botanicals in the spirit play well with the green, herbaceous qualities in the basil, generously used to gently muddle and garnish the drink. According to Meyer, the more basil leaves, the better.
Fresh lemon juice provides the acidic complement to the sweetness of the simple syrup and helps to balance the drink. Be sure to use recently plucked basil for the freshest flavor and most vivid green color.
