Lime Basil Gin Rickey Cocktail Recipe
This refreshing drink combines gin, lime, and basil for a tasty twist on a classic cocktail. It's easy to make at home with just a few ingredients and tools.
Equipment
- Highball glass
- Muddler or wooden spoon
- Jigger or measuring cup
- Bar spoon or long-handled spoon
- Cocktail shaker (optional)
- Ice
Ingredients
For one cocktail, you'll need:
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz fresh lime juice about 1 lime
- 4-5 fresh basil leaves
- Club soda
- Ice
- Lime wheel and basil sprig for garnish
Use a London Dry style gin for best results. Fresh lime juice is key - bottled juice won't taste as good. Pick bright green, fragrant basil leaves.
Instructions
- Put basil leaves in the bottom of a highball glass.
- Add lime juice and gently muddle to release the basil oils.
- Fill the glass with ice.
- Pour in the gin.
- Top with club soda and stir gently.
- Garnish with a lime wheel and basil sprig.
For a smoother drink, shake the gin, lime juice, and muddled basil with ice in a cocktail shaker. Strain into an ice-filled glass and top with club soda.
Notes
You can adjust the sweetness by adding a bit of simple syrup. For a non-alcoholic version, replace gin with more club soda.
This drink is best enjoyed right away while it's cold and fizzy. The basil may turn brown if left too long.
Try different herbs like mint or thyme for variety. You can also use vodka instead of gin for a different flavor.