Blueberry Basil Gin Cocktail

Looking for a new cocktail to enjoy this summer? Try this Blueberry Basil Gin Cocktail that is light, refreshing and thirst quenching!

Are you on the hunt for a refreshing and flavorful cocktail to beat the summer heat? Look no further! Our Blueberry Basil Gin Cocktail is the perfect choice. With the delightful combination of blueberries, aromatic basil, and the classic spirit of gin, this cocktail is sure to ignite your taste buds. In this blog post, we will explore the ingredients, provide step-by-step instructions, and share some tips to help you create the perfect Blueberry Basil Gin Cocktail.

Understanding the Ingredients

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate the incredible ingredients that make this cocktail so special. Blueberries, known for their abundance of antioxidants and essential vitamins, add a sweet and tangy burst of flavor. Basil, with its aromatic notes and culinary versatility, provides a unique twist to this cocktail. And, of course, gin, with its botanical blend and rich history, forms the backbone of this refreshing concoction. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious balance of flavors and make one delicious cocktail!

What is the best gin to use for this cocktail?

When it comes to cocktails, there are several gins that are known for their versatility and flavor profiles. Here are some popular choices for crafting delicious gin-based cocktails:

1. Tanqueray: Tanqueray is a classic London dry gin that works well in a wide range of cocktails. Its balanced flavor profile with notes of juniper, citrus, and spice makes it a great choice for both traditional and contemporary cocktails.
2. Hendrick’s: Hendrick’s is a unique gin known for its infusion of cucumber and rose petals. It adds a refreshing and floral element to cocktails, making it particularly suitable for cocktails like the Gin and Tonic or the Martini.
3. Beefeater: Another iconic London dry gin, Beefeater is a go-to option for many bartenders. It has a bold juniper-forward taste, with hints of citrus and spice, which makes it an excellent base for classic gin cocktails like the Negroni or the Tom Collins.
4. Bombay Sapphire: Bombay Sapphire is a popular choice for gin cocktails due to its smooth and well-balanced flavor. It features botanicals like coriander, lemon peel, and grains of paradise, providing a vibrant and aromatic character that complements various cocktail recipes.
5. Plymouth: Plymouth gin has a long history and is a versatile option for cocktails. It has a slightly sweeter and earthier flavor profile compared to London dry gins, making it an excellent choice for drinks like the Gin Sour or the Gimlet.
6. Monkey 47: Monkey 47 is a premium gin from Germany, known for its complex and aromatic flavor profile. It contains 47 botanicals and offers a unique blend of fruity, floral, and herbal notes, making it a fantastic choice for crafting sophisticated cocktails.

These are just a few examples, and there are many other excellent gins available in the market. Experiment and see what gin you like best.

Blueberry Basil Gin Cocktail-Ingredients

• 10 blueberries (fresh, large, ripe)
• 3 basil leaves (fresh)
• 1 oz simple syrup
• 1 oz lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 2 oz gin

Instructions

• Begin by muddling the blueberries, basil leaves and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker. Gently crush the blueberries to release their juices and let the aroma of basil infuse the mixture.
• Add ice, gin and freshly squeezed lime juice to the shaker. 
• Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to ensure the flavors are thoroughly combined and infused.
• Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice cubes.
• Garnish with basil leaves and blueberries.
• Cheers!

Tips for the Best Blueberry Basil Gin Cocktail

• Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently crush the blueberries and basil leaves, ensuring you release their flavors without over-mashing.
• Taste your cocktail during the mixing process and adjust the sweetness or acidity by adding more simple syrup or lime juice according to your preference.
• Experiment with different gin brands or botanical blends to find the one that suits your taste buds best. Each gin imparts its unique character to the cocktail.
• If you have leftover blueberries or basil, you can freeze the blueberries for future use or create infused simple syrup by simmering the basil leaves with sugar and water.

Serving and Presentation

• Choose a lowball glass for an elegant presentation.
• Enhance the visual appeal by garnishing your cocktail with a sprig of fresh basil and/or a few extra blueberries.
• For a complete experience, pair your Blueberry Basil Gin Cocktail with light appetizers like tomato and brie tart or goat cheese crostini.

It’s your turn!

This Blueberry Basil Gin Cocktail is a refreshing and vibrant drink that perfectly captures the essence of summer. With its unique combination of blueberries, basil, and gin, this cocktail is sure to become a new favorite.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather the ingredients, muddle those blueberries and basil leaves, shake up the flavors, and enjoy a refreshing sip of this delightful cocktail. Whether you’re hosting a summer soirée, lounging by the pool, or simply unwinding after a long day, this cocktail is the perfect companion.

Remember to share your experiences with us! We would love to hear how your Blueberry Basil Gin Cocktail turned out and any variations or personal touches you added to make it your own. Don’t hesitate to get creative and experiment with different garnishes or additional ingredients to customize the cocktail to your liking.

Cheers to the perfect cocktail and remember…

Life’s too short to eat bad food!

For other refreshing summer cocktails try:

Basil Gimlet

Blueberry Daiquiri

Cucumber and Basil Martini

Elderflower Margarita

Fresh Watermelon Rum Cocktail

Refreshing Raspberry Paloma

Strawberry Rhubarb Spritz

For more delicious cocktails check out our drinks/cocktails section!