Barsys
Cucumber Basil Gimlet
About
The Cucumber Basil Gimlet is the cocktail equivalent of a deep breath on a warm day - cool, clean, and quietly confident. It takes the simplicity of the classic gimlet and infuses it with fresh cucumber and basil for a modern, herbaceous twist.
The gin (or vodka, if you prefer it softer) provides a crisp backbone, while lime juice and simple syrup bring that perfect sweet-tart balance. Muddled cucumber and basil round it out with bright, green aromatics that feel straight out of a spa garden. It’s the kind of drink that refreshes your palate and your mood in equal measure.
Shaken or Stirred? Shaken. Muddling brings the freshness, and shaking blends it all into a perfectly chilled, aromatic pour.
What You'll Need
For one cocktail:
- 1.5 oz Gin (or Vodka)
- 0.75 oz Lime Juice
- 0.5 oz Simple Syrup
- 2 Cucumber Slices
- 1 Fresh Basil Leaf (muddled)
Pro Tip: Press the basil leaf gently between your palms before garnishing - it releases the oils without bruising, keeping the aroma clean and vibrant.
Garnish: Cucumber Ribbon or Thin Wheel, Fresh Basil Leaf
Presentation Tip: Serve in a rocks glass or coupe over clear ice. The basil leaf floating on top gives it that elegant, spa-like finish.
How to Make It
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Skill Level: Easy
- In a shaker, muddle cucumber slices and a basil leaf with simple syrup.
- Add gin (or vodka), lime juice, and ice.
- Shake well until chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass or coupe.
- Garnish with a cucumber ribbon and fresh basil leaf.
Using Barsys Cocktail Maker?
Load gin (or vodka), lime juice, and simple syrup into your Barsys Coaster 2.0 Cocktail Maker. Barsys ensures precise balance every time - just muddle your cucumber and basil first, and pour the mix over.
For the full recipe, download the Barsys App.
Tasting Notes
The Barsys Edge
This cocktail is all about precision and freshness. Barsys ensures the citrus-to-sweetness ratio is spot on, so the cucumber and basil notes stay bright and never overpowered.
Sip Setting
Perfect for breezy afternoons, al fresco lunches, or nights when you want something light yet sophisticated. It’s a drink that feels like a reset button - clean, crisp, and quietly luxurious.
Garnish Game
The combo of a cucumber ribbon and fresh basil leaf is hard to beat. Float the basil leaf on top for that spa-like aesthetic, or coil the cucumber inside the glass for a modern, polished look that screams “crafted.”
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FAQs
Can I make this without muddling?
Yes - use cucumber and basil-infused simple syrup instead for a cleaner texture.
Gin or vodka - which is better?
Gin brings botanical depth; vodka keeps it smooth and minimal. Both work beautifully.
Can I batch this for guests?
Absolutely. Just mix the liquid ingredients ahead and muddle fresh before serving.
Can I swap the basil?
Try mint or thyme for a different herbal profile - both play well with cucumber and lime.
How do I get those perfect cucumber ribbons?
Use a vegetable peeler for thin, even strips, then twist or coil them inside the glass for a polished look.