The Basil Cucumber Gin Fizz is a crisp and refreshing drink perfect for warmer days or when you’re in the mood for something light and clean. Fresh cucumber and fragrant basil bring a cool, garden-fresh taste, while the gin adds just the right touch of herbal notes. Finished with a splash of fizz, this cocktail feels bright and easy without being overpowering. It’s simple, smooth, and a great choice when you want a drink that feels fresh from the first sip to the last. Whether you’re relaxing outside or winding down, this one fits the moment perfectly.
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Tasting Notes
This Basil Cucumber Gin Fizz drink is fresh, cool, and lightly herbal. The crisp flavor of cucumber pairs smoothly with the peppery, slightly sweet notes of fresh basil. Gin adds a botanical base that ties everything together without being too strong. Lime juice brings a tart, citrusy bite that brightens the whole drink. Topped with fizzy club soda, it feels light and refreshing with every sip. This is the kind of cocktail you want when you’re looking for something clean and refreshing with just a hint of garden-fresh flavor.
Equipment and Glassware
A sturdy cocktail shaker is key for muddling the cucumber and basil to release their flavors. You’ll also need a muddler or the back of a spoon for this step. A strainer helps keep the bits of herbs and cucumber out of the final pour. Serve this cocktail in a tall glass like a Collins or highball glass. These glasses help keep the drink cold and showcase the bubbles from the club soda. A cocktail pick or small skewer is useful for holding the garnish neatly on top.
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 0.75 oz lime juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- Club soda (to top)
- 4–5 cucumber slices
- 5–6 fresh basil leaves
- Garnish: cucumber wheel or basil sprig
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, add cucumber slices, basil leaves, simple syrup, and lime juice. Gently muddle to release flavors.
- Add gin and fill the shaker with ice. Shake well until chilled.
- Double strain into a highball glass filled with ice to remove solids.
- Fill the glass with club soda and stir gently.
- Add a cucumber wheel or a fresh basil sprig for a refreshing finish.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh, crisp cucumber for the best flavor and aroma.
- If the basil leaves are large, tear them before muddling to help release more flavor.
- Don’t over-muddle the basil; this can cause bitterness.
- Always taste before serving if you prefer it sweeter, add a touch more simple syrup.
- Use a high-quality gin with clean, fresh botanical notes to keep the drink light.
- For a more visually appealing drink, add a long cucumber ribbon inside the glass before pouring.
When to Serve
This Basil Cucumber Gin Fizz is the perfect drink for warm afternoons, garden parties, or casual weekend get-togethers. It’s also a great choice for brunch menus or light outdoor lunches. Because it’s refreshing and not too heavy, it works well before dinner or as a daytime cocktail. Serve it when you’re looking to offer something fresh and cooling, especially during spring and summer gatherings.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Choose a gin with bright, clean flavors that won’t overpower the fresh ingredients.
- Bombay Sapphire, Hendrick’s, or Tanqueray are all good options.
- If you want to highlight the cucumber notes, Hendrick’s works especially well since it already has cucumber and rose in its botanical mix.
- Use fresh lime juice rather than bottled for the best flavor.
- A basic, neutral club soda will finish the drink without adding any extra flavors or sweetness.
Similar Cocktails
- Cherry Basil Smash
- Cucumber Vodka Gimlet
- Blueberry Gin Mojito
- Cucumber Vodka Soda
- Empress Gimlet Colada
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 0.75 oz lime juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- Club soda to top
- 4 –5 cucumber slices
- 5 –6 fresh basil leaves
- Garnish: cucumber wheel or basil sprig
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, add cucumber slices, basil leaves, simple syrup, and lime juice. Gently muddle to release flavors.
- Add gin and fill the shaker with ice. Shake well until chilled.
- Double strain into a highball glass filled with ice to remove solids.
- Fill the glass with club soda and stir gently.
- Add a cucumber wheel or a fresh basil sprig for a refreshing finish.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Don’t over-muddle the basil to avoid bitterness—just a light press is enough.
- Use a floral or citrus-forward gin to enhance the fresh flavors.
- Chill your glass beforehand for an even more refreshing experience.