15 Must-Try Cocktails With Basil

The Peach Basil Gin and Tonic is a fresh and flavorful spin on the classic highball. Juicy peaches and fragrant basil are muddled together to release their sweet and herbal notes, then shaken with gin, peach liqueur, and a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Topped with tonic water, the drink gets a bubbly, refreshing finish that’s light and easy to sip.

The combination of ripe fruit and fresh herbs makes it perfect for summer afternoons, garden parties, or relaxing evenings on the patio. It’s a seasonal twist that turns the traditional gin and tonic into something colorful, crisp, and full of character.

The Blood Orange Basil Margarita is a fresh and lively take on a classic favorite, served right inside a can of blood orange seltzer for a playful touch. The mix of fresh blood orange and lime juices adds a bold citrus flavor with just the right amount of tang.

Smooth blanco tequila blends beautifully with a hint of agave for a light sweetness. A pinch of flaky sea salt enhances the flavors, while a garnish of basil and a juicy slice of blood orange makes it look as good as it tastes. It’s easy, refreshing, and ideal for sunny afternoons or relaxed gatherings.

The Lemon Basil Spritz is a bright and refreshing twist on the traditional spritz, with a gentle herbal touch that feels fresh and inviting. Fresh basil adds a soft, fragrant note that pairs beautifully with the tart flavor of fresh lemon juice. Sweet limoncello brings a smooth citrus sweetness, while sparkling wine adds a lively fizz that keeps every sip light and crisp.

The combination is balanced and easy to enjoy, making it perfect for warm afternoons, relaxed brunches, or as a light drink before dinner. It’s simple to prepare, pretty in the glass, and always a welcome choice for casual gatherings.

The Grapefruit Basil Greyhound is a fresh and flavorful update to the classic mix of vodka and grapefruit juice. This version adds a drizzle of honey for natural sweetness, creating a smooth balance to the bright citrus flavor. Fresh basil brings an earthy, garden‑fresh aroma that makes each sip feel special.

A splash of sparkling water gives it a light, bubbly finish that keeps the drink crisp and easy to enjoy. Refreshing yet layered with subtle complexity, this cocktail is perfect for sipping on a sunny afternoon, enjoying with friends outdoors, or serving as a simple but memorable drink for casual gatherings.

The Mandarin Basil Smash is a lively and refreshing cocktail that blends citrus brightness with herbal freshness and a gentle hint of spice. Juicy mandarin and fragrant basil create an inviting aroma and a burst of flavor from the very first sip. Mandarin vodka adds a smooth, citrus‑infused base, while ginger liqueur brings a touch of warmth and subtle spice.

A small amount of simple syrup softens the edges and keeps the flavors balanced. Topped with citrus club soda, it gains a light, bubbly finish that makes it crisp and easy to enjoy. Perfect for warm spring or summer afternoons, it’s simple, fresh, and full of flavor.

The Honeydew Basil Spritz is a refreshing and easygoing cocktail that combines soft fruit sweetness with light herbal notes and a gentle sparkle. Fresh honeydew juice offers a mellow, juicy flavor that feels smooth and naturally sweet. Crisp basil adds a garden‑fresh aroma, while St‑Germain lends a delicate elderflower taste that pairs beautifully with the fruit.

A splash of lemon juice brightens the drink, keeping it balanced and lively. Prosecco and sparkling water bring a bubbly lift, making each sip feel light and celebratory. Served over ice with a basil leaf, it’s perfect for warm afternoons, picnics, or relaxed evenings with friends.

The Basil Mint Tequila Sour is a bright and refreshing take on a classic sour, with an herbal twist that feels crisp and inviting. Fresh basil and mint are muddled to release their cool, aromatic flavors, creating a garden‑fresh base that pairs beautifully with the smooth bite of blanco tequila.

Fresh lime juice adds a tart, citrusy kick that keeps the drink balanced, while a touch of sweetness softens the edges. Light and easy to sip, it’s perfect for warm afternoons, outdoor gatherings, or any time you want a clean, flavorful cocktail. Simple yet full of character, it’s made for relaxed sipping.

The Strawberry Basil Smash is a light and flavorful cocktail that combines sweet fruit with fresh herbal notes for an easygoing drink that still feels special. Juicy strawberries bring natural sweetness and a vibrant color, while fresh basil adds an earthy, aromatic layer that keeps each sip interesting.

A splash of citrus brightens the flavors, and your choice of spirit ties it all together with a smooth finish. Served over ice, it’s chilled, refreshing, and ideal for patio afternoons, weekend gatherings, or a quick at‑home treat. Garnished with a basil leaf or strawberry slice, it’s as good to look at as it is to drink.

The Cherry Basil Smash is a bright and flavorful cocktail that mixes the juicy sweetness of ripe cherries with the earthy, aromatic taste of fresh basil. Muddling the cherries and basil together releases their natural flavors, creating a smooth and fragrant base.

Gin adds a crisp, botanical layer that pairs perfectly with the fruit and herbs, while a splash of soda water brings light bubbles that make it extra refreshing. Served over ice, it’s chilled, easy to sip, and ideal for warm summer days, outdoor gatherings, or a relaxed happy hour. Garnish with a basil sprig or cherry for a colorful finish.

The Peach and Basil Bourbon Smash is a smooth and refreshing cocktail that brings together the sweet, juicy taste of ripe peaches with the fresh, herbal aroma of basil. Muddling the peaches and basil releases their natural flavors, creating a fragrant and flavorful base. Bourbon adds a warm, rich depth that complements the fruit perfectly.

Fresh lemon juice brightens the drink with a hint of tartness, while honey syrup adds a gentle sweetness that ties everything together. Served over ice, it’s chilled, balanced, and easy to enjoy, making it an ideal choice for warm afternoons, backyard gatherings, or relaxed evenings with friends.

The Lime Basil Mezcalita is a bold and flavorful cocktail that combines the smoky depth of mezcal with the bright freshness of lime and basil. Muddled basil releases an herbal aroma that blends beautifully with the tangy citrus, creating a refreshing contrast to the rich, earthy notes of the spirit.

The drink is finished with a rim of bacon salt, adding a savory, slightly salty edge that makes each sip unique and memorable. Served over ice, it’s smooth, layered, and full of character, making it a great choice for adventurous drinkers who enjoy a balance of smoky, fresh, and savory flavors.

The Melon Basil Breeze is a light and refreshing cocktail that blends the gentle sweetness of honeydew melon with the fresh, herbal aroma of basil. The flavor is lifted by a bright splash of lime juice, adding a citrusy zing that keeps each sip crisp and lively. Muddling the melon and basil together releases their natural flavors, creating a smooth and fragrant base.

Served over ice, it’s cool and easy to drink, making it perfect for warm summer afternoons, backyard picnics, or poolside lounging. With its fresh ingredients and eye‑catching color, it’s also a great choice for impressing guests at any gathering.

The Peach Basil Margarita is a fresh and flavorful take on the classic margarita, combining sweet, citrus, and herbal notes in every sip. It’s made with smooth tequila, orange liqueur, fresh lime juice, and a touch of simple syrup for balance.

Ripe peach purée adds natural sweetness and a fruity depth, while fresh basil brings a light, aromatic twist that makes the drink stand out. Garnished with peach slices and basil leaves, it’s as pretty as it is tasty. Easy to make and perfect for parties, this refreshing cocktail is a crowd-pleaser for both seasoned cocktail lovers and first-time margarita drinkers.