The Basil Mint Tequila Sour is a fresh, herbal twist on a classic cocktail. Made with muddled basil and mint, it brings a cool, crisp flavor that pairs perfectly with the clean bite of blanco tequila. Lime juice gives it a bright, tart edge, keeping the drink balanced and easy to sip. It’s light, smooth, and refreshing great for warm weather or anytime you want something with a clean finish. The herbs add a garden-fresh feel without being overpowering. The Basil Mint Tequila Sour is simple but thoughtful, made for slow sipping and relaxed vibes.
Tasting Notes
This Basil Mint Tequila Sour is crisp, herbal, and super refreshing. The basil and mint give it a cool, green lift, while the lime juice adds a bright citrus edge. Simple syrup softens the tartness just enough, and the blanco tequila brings a clean, earthy base. It’s fresh, balanced, and easy to sip kind of like a garden-fresh twist on a classic gimlet with just the right mix of sharp and smooth.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a cocktail shaker, muddler, jigger, and fine strainer. The fine strainer helps catch all the muddled herbs so the drink stays clean. Use a chilled coupe glass for serving. A bar spoon can be handy if you want to gently stir after straining, but shaking does most of the work.
Ingredients
- 2 oz blanco tequila
- 1 oz lime juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 5 fresh basil leaves
- 5 fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- Add the basil, mint, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker.
- Gently muddle the herbs to release their oils—don’t overdo it.
- Add the lime juice and tequila, then fill the shaker with ice.
- Shake for 10–15 seconds until well chilled.
- Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to catch any herb bits.
- Garnish with a small mint sprig, basil leaf, or lime wheel.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh, firm herbs wilted leaves won’t bring the same flavor.
- Don’t over-muddle or you’ll get bitterness; just press to release aroma.
- Shake hard to chill and blend the drink properly, and double strain to keep out small herb bits.
- Chill the glass ahead of time for the best experience from the first sip.
When to Serve
This Basil Mint Tequila Sour is a great cocktail for spring and summer, brunch, or any time you want something crisp and clean with a little herbal flair. It’s also a great way to switch up the usual margarita or mojito if you’re craving something fresh but not overly fruity.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Go with a smooth blanco tequila like Espolòn, Olmeca Altos, or El Tesoro.
- Use fresh lime juice for the best citrus bite, and make your own simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water) for a clean mix.
- Fresh-picked basil and mint from the store or garden will give you the best flavor and aroma.
Similar Cocktails
- Blackberry Vodka Lemonade
- Hot Honey Peach Margarita
- Limoncello Champagne Cocktail
- Watermelon Vodka Sour
- Mango Vodka Sour

Ingredients
- 2 oz blanco tequila
- 1 oz lime juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 5 fresh basil leaves
- 5 fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- Add the basil, mint, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker.
- Gently muddle the herbs to release their oils—don’t overdo it.
- Add the lime juice and tequila, then fill the shaker with ice.
- Shake for 10–15 seconds until well chilled.
- Double strain into a chilled coupe glass to catch any herb bits.
- Garnish with a small mint sprig, basil leaf, or lime wheel.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Muddle just enough to bruise the herbs. Crushing them too much can make the drink taste bitter.
- If you like it a little drier, reduce the simple syrup slightly.
- Chilling your glass ahead of time helps keep the drink crisp.


