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Basil Mint Tequila Sour

Basil Mint Tequila Sour

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.

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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.

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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.

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Basil Mint Tequila Sour

Basil Mint Tequila Sour

Prep Time: 4 minutes
No ratings yet
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Keyword: basil leaves, blanco tequila, Lime Juice, mint leaves
Servings: 1
Author: Paul Kushner

Ingredients

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.
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Paul Kushner

Written by Paul Kushner

Founder and CEO of MyBartender. Graduated from Penn State University. He always had a deep interest in the restaurant and bar industry. His restaurant experience began in 1997 at the age of 14 as a bus boy. By the time he turned 17 he was serving tables, and by 19 he was bartending/bar managing 6-7 nights a week.

In 2012, after a decade and a half of learning all facets of the industry, Paul opened his first restaurant/bar. In 2015, a second location followed, the latter being featured on The Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

Follow them on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, Google Guide and MuckRack.

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