GIN BASIL SMASH
Fresh and extremely refreshing, the Gin Basil Smash is a cocktail invented by the charismatic Joerg Meyer. Some think of the Gin Basil Smash as a Spring gin cocktail, but it is happy to refuse categorisation.
Prep Time
3 Minutes
Serves
1
Glass
Double Rock Glass
Equipment
Shaker
Garnishes
Basil Leaves
Ingredients
- 2 parts HENDRICK’S GIN
- 1 part Lemon Juice
- 1/2 part Simple Syrup
- 8 Basil Leaves to Garnish
How to make
- Add basil to base of cocktail shaker and muddle gently.
- Add remaining ingredients and shake well with ice.
- Strain over an ice-filled rocks glass and garnish with basil leaf.
Garnishes
- Basil Leaves
Occasions
- Feasts & Dinner Parties
- Garden Parties & Picnics
- Celebrations
Slap your basil garnish very gently to release some of its aromas
Some questions
people often ask us
Who invented the Gin Basil Smash?
A man called Joerg Meyer who owns a bar called Le Lion Bar de Paris in Hamburg.
What can you use to muddle the basil in a Gin Basil Smash?
A muddler is best but a spoon or even a rolling pin would work.
How do you make sugar syrup for a Gin Basil Smash?
Mix equal part of caster sugar and water in a small pan. Bring to the boil and then remove from the heat and allow the sugar to dissolve. Allow to cool and refrigerate.
A brief history of
the Gin Basil Smash
A fairly new cocktail onto the scene! Created by Hamburg bartender Jörg Meyer in 2008. The cocktail was originally called a Gin Pesto but over time transitioned to become a Gin Basil Smash to go alongside other 'Smash' cocktails such as the Whiskey Smash.

HENDRICK’S GIN
The original HENDRICK’S GIN. Deliciously infused with Rose and Cucumber.
HENDRICK’S GIN, with its distinctly elegant black bottle is the most beloved of gin gifts. An unusual gin created from eleven fine botanicals, this is a most distinguished Scottish gin gift. The curious, yet marvelous, infusions of rose & cucumber imbue our spirit with its uniquely balanced flavor resulting in an impeccably smooth and distinct gin.
44% ABV