Basil Gimlet
Mixologists and founders of Rye on the Road, a San Francisco–based cocktail catering company, Greg Lindgren and Jon Gasparini explain that although this is a very simple drink, it’s also extremely popular, which explains why it has been on the menu of their bar Rye since it opened almost a decade ago. To make rich simple syrup, simply bring two parts sugar and one part water to a boil in a saucepan, then remove from the heat and let cool. The syrup can be stored in a bottle in your refrigerator for at least a month.
Ingredients:
- 6 fresh basil leaves
- 3/4 oz. (20 ml) fresh lime juice
- 1/2 oz. (15 ml) rich simple syrup
- 1 1/2 oz. (45 ml) gin or vodka
Directions:
In a cocktail shaker, muddle 5 of the basil leaves with the lime juice and simple syrup until the basil is very aromatic. Fill the shaker with ice and add the gin. Shake vigorously, then strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with the remaining basil leaf. Serve immediately. Makes 1 drink.
Greg Lindgren and Jon Gasparini, Rye on the Road, San Francisco, CA