Today we would like to introduce you to a special recipe that goes perfectly with our fine THORALM Dry Gin: the Gin Basil Smash. This cocktail impresses with its fresh, herbal note and its elegant simplicity. But before we get to the recipe, let's take a look at the origin of this delicious drink and the meaning of its name.
Where does the Gin Basil Smash come from?
The Gin Basil Smash was created in 2008 by Jörg Meyer at Le Lion Bar de Paris in Hamburg, Germany. Meyer, a renowned bartender, was looking for a way to incorporate fresh herbs into a gin cocktail and created the Gin Basil Smash. This cocktail has quickly become a modern classic and is now a staple in any upscale bar.
What does Basil mean?
“Basil” is the English word for basil, an aromatic herb that is widely used in Mediterranean cuisine. It gives the Gin Basil Smash its characteristic green color and unmistakably fresh taste. Basil symbolizes love and prosperity in many cultures, making this cocktail not only a treat for the palate, but also a symbolic drink.
The recipe for the perfect Gin Basil Smash
To create a perfect Gin Basil Smash you will need the following ingredients:
- 6 cl THORALM Dry Gin
- 2 cl fresh lemon juice
- 2 cl sugar syrup
- 10 fresh basil leaves
- ice cubes
Preparation:
- Place the basil leaves and lemon juice in a shaker and muddle the leaves with a pestle to release the essential oils.
- Add the sugar syrup and the THORALM Dry Gin.
- Fill the shaker with ice cubes and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
- Strain the contents into a tumbler glass filled with ice cubes.
- Garnish the drink with a fresh basil leaf.
preparation time: 5 minutes // calories: approx. 165 kcal per drink
Why THORALM Dry Gin?
THORALM Dry Gin is not just any gin. Our distillery places great value on quality and exclusivity. With a careful selection of botanicals and a complex distillation process, we guarantee an incomparably pure and aromatic gin that is perfect for high-quality cocktails. The THORALM Dry Gin harmonizes perfectly with the fresh aromas of basil and lemon, making the Gin Basil Smash an exquisite pleasure.
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DRY GIN in gift box 500ml
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Product contains: 500 ml
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THORALM DRY GIN 500ml
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Product contains: 500 ml
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THORALM DRY GIN 6 x 500ml
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Gin Basil Smash Variations
Although the classic recipe is already perfect, there are some interesting variations you can try:
- Gin Basil Smash with Cucumber: Add a few slices of fresh cucumber to give the cocktail an extra refreshing touch.
- Gin Basil Smash with Raspberries: Crush some fresh raspberries together with the basil to create a fruity version.
- Gin Basil Smash with a hint of mint: Add a few mint leaves to the basil for an even more intense herbal flavor.
Comparison of Gin Basil Smash variants
| variation | Additional ingredient | flavor profile | Recommended set | Perfect occasion |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic | – | Fresh, herbal, citrusy | basil leaf | After work, summer evening |
| With cucumber | 2–3 cucumber slices | Fresh, mild, cooling | Cucumber slice & basil | garden party, brunch |
| With raspberries | 3–4 fresh raspberries | Fruity, slightly sweet, floral | Raspberry & Basil | Girls' night, cocktail night |
| With mint | 3–4 additional mint leaves | Intensely herbal, refreshing | Mint sprig & lemon zest | Summer wedding, balcony moment |
| Frozen Basil Smash | Crushed ice instead of ice cubes | Slushy-like, extra cooling | Basil leaf & lime wedge | Pool party, heat wave |
| Smash Fizz | + Soda Water (50 ml) | Lighter, more sparkling, less sweet | Basil & lemon zest | Aperitif, light lunch |
| Virgin Basil Smash | Non-alcoholic gin or herbal tonic | Herbal, mild, alcohol-free | Cucumber, basil & lemon slice | BBQ with kids, alcohol-free enjoyment |
Tips for the perfect preparation
- Fresh ingredients: Always use fresh basil leaves and lemon juice for the best flavor.
- quality of the gin: The THORALM Dry Gin offers the ideal basis for this cocktail thanks to its high-quality botanicals and careful production.
- Correct technique: Shake the cocktail vigorously, but not for too long, to optimally mix the flavors without releasing too much water from the ice.
Conclusion
The Gin Basil Smash is more than just a cocktail – it is a tribute to the art of mixology and the exquisite flavours of THORALM Dry GinWhether for a stylish evening with friends or as a special treat for yourself, this drink will delight you and your guests. Try it and let yourself be enchanted by the fresh elegance of the Gin Basil Smash.
Frequently asked questions about Gin Basil Smash
What makes THORALM Dry Gin so special?
The THORALM Dry Gin is distilled from hand-picked botanicals and pure spring water, which gives it an incomparably clear and aromatic taste. The careful distillation and the use of high-quality ingredients guarantee a premium quality that discerning connoisseurs appreciate.
Can I make the Gin Basil Smash in advance?
It is recommended that you make the Gin Basil Smash fresh to best preserve the flavors of basil and lemon. If you want to prepare the cocktail for a larger group, you can mix the ingredients and keep them cool until serving, but only add the ice just before serving.
Are there non-alcoholic alternatives to Gin Basil Smash?
Yes, you can replace the gin with an alternative such as a Herbal Tonic Water which mimics the taste of gin with its bitter and herbaceous notes. This way, even non-alcoholic guests can enjoy the refreshing taste of Basil Smash.
Photo: Brent Hofacker / stock.adobe.com
