We’re having a brief return to summer weather here in Chicago this week, so we’ve decided to celebrate one more of our summer cocktails that will be leaving our menu this week. The Summer Smash pairs the delicious purple basil we’ve been growing out front all summer with fresh berries, gin and lemon. A delicious sipper for the season that is bright and herbaceous, and not too sweet.
Summer Smash
2 oz Gin No. 11
¾ oz Fresh Lemon Juice
¾ oz Plain Simple Syrup
2 Strawberries (or 8-10 Blueberries or 5-6 Raspberries)
4-5 Basil Leaves
Muddle berries, simple and basil. Add gin and lemon, then shake vigorously. Fine strain into a chilled coupe glass or a rocks glass over ice, and garnish with a sprig of fresh basil, or a lemon twist, or both. This recipe also works with classic sweet basil.
Enjoy!
