This Strawberry Gin Basil Smash is refreshing, fruity, and not too sweet. Basil pairs perfectly with strawberries to create a balanced, pretty pink cocktail.

If you’re like, “girlfriend, why are you posting about a strawberry cocktail in October?”

I know. I know.

I’m going to write about savoring the last taste of summer and all that jazz, but the truth is this girl is behinddd on her posts. So, maybe you live in California or somewhere warm and are still harvesting the last of your berries, and maybe your garden isn’t covered by 4 inches of snow at the moment (glares out the window).

With autumn upon us you might have some last harvest picks to use up, and we highly suggest using them for our Strawberry Gin Basil Smash. As with most cocktails, its warming effect will do nicely in these colder months, and the fruity flavor will provide a welcomed lighter note.

This is a libation for those who are missing summer. Not to mention: How pretty are these pink cocktails?

What is a Gin Basil Smash?

This modern green cocktail was birthed in 2008 and comprised of four simple ingredients: gin, sugar, basil, and lemon juice.

The cocktail has quite the controversy behind it. Two men in Germany created basically the same cocktail around the same time, but the bartender who used the powers of social media reaped all the credit.

While the cocktail’s success stems mostly from its simplicity, the Basil Gin Smash can have some distinct differences depending on who is crafting it. Our version is inspired by the classic pairing — with a floral and fruity twist.

How to Make Flavored Simple Syrups

Rather than just adding sugar to your cocktails, it’s always best to make a simple syrup (equal parts water and sugar boiled). This syrup stays liquid and ensures you don’t have undissolved sugar crystals in your cocktail.

However, not infusing your simple syrup with flavor? That’s just a missed opportunity.

The options are endless when it comes to flavored simple syrups. One thing that I love to do is pair sweet and savory flavors. An easy way to do this is pair fruit with fresh herbs, which creates a perfectly balanced pairing that isn’t too sweet.

This syrup is just strawberries, water, fresh basil, sugar, and a touch of honey for a floral note. Combine with gin, lime, and a splash of club soda, and you have yourself a delicious and refreshing Strawberry Gin Basil Smash.

The Best Gin to Use

Gins vary greatly in flavor profiles and you should choose your favorite gin for making mixed drinks and cocktails. While I love something with strong botanical notes for my gin and tonics, I opt for dry gin with a softer profile for cocktails.

I always suggest going for something local, too, if you can. I’m spoiled because I live ten minutes from Dry Fly Distilling, which is basically my happy place.

Dry Fly is a wonderful contributor and excellent source of spirits based out of Spokane, WA, and I can’t help but love their team and their vision. Their farm-to-bottle craft spirits are all amazing, and I love their Washington Gin. The American-style gin features flavors specific to Washington and the Pacific Northwest (fuji apple, coriander, lavender, mint, and hops added to fresh Oregon juniper berries). How cool is that?

We hope that you make and love this Strawberry Gin Basil Smash! What’s your favorite cocktail to make using gin? Let us know below and be sure to check out our other cocktail recipes.