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.
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.