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Whatever happened to the classy cocktail hour: a time to relax after a long day, sipping and enjoying a fresh drink? Well, it’s high time we bring that wonderful hour of bygone eras back don’t you think?! Recently, I’ve started cultivating (and enjoying) some drink creations of my own. With spring on the horizon, the itch for refreshing drinks has begun. For me, it’s high past time to rid my palate of the mundane and boring and liven it up with this rosemary basil gin and soda.
At my farm, I’m continually looking for ways to use herbs in different ways around the kitchen. In my honest opinion (although I may be slightly biased since I love my garden), herbs are simply too underutilized in all aspects of life. Complete with resilient fresh flavors, herbs are perfect for the infusion in…well, anything! Thankfully, this spring I’ve imagined this gin and soda that uses a smattering of those terrific herbs!
Nothing evokes spring like a high-quality gin. By itself, gin has an almost earthy, but oh-so-crisp flavor. I love Henrick’s Gin for its quality and superior taste. A better quality liquor really does make a difference when mixing a great cocktail.
What if you don’t drink alcohol?
Remember: it’s not necessary to use alcohol in this drink. If you prefer a nonalcoholic thirst-quencher, simply add a touch more club soda. The “kick” won’t be there, but it will be just as satisfying!
This gin and soda is truly a refreshing lemonade of sorts. The herbs provide a special finish that may seem daunting to try. But trust me: once you venture out on this limb, you’ll want to make this drink again and again.
Also, make sure to try out my blackberry mojito recipe if that’s more your style!
Start pouring!
More drink recipes
Orange Espresso Tonic
Spiked Apple Cider
At-Home Shaken Espresso
Rosemary Basil Gin and Soda
Rosemary Basil Gin and Soda
Ingredients
For the rosemary basil-infused simple syrup
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup sugar
- 3 sprigs rosemary
- 6-8 basil leaves
For the gin fizz
- 2 oz rosemary basil-infused simple syrup (see above)
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz lemon juice
- club soda as desired
Instructions
For the simple syrup
- Combine all ingredients in a kettle and bring to boil. Turn to low heat and simmer for approximately 10 minutes.½ cup water, ½ cup sugar, 3 sprigs rosemary, 6-8 basil leaves
- Strain syrup and cool before using. Store in the refrigerator until ready to use.
For the gin and soda
- Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake and pour in glasses. Top with club soda.2 oz rosemary basil-infused simple syrup (see above), 2 oz gin, 1 oz lemon juice, club soda
Notes
- The rosemary basil simple syrup makes approximately four servings.
How big is a “sprig” of rosemary? Three inches? Four inches? How big are the basil leaves? Those can vary widely, as I’m sure you know. A video would be helpful so we could see what sizes you are using and then I could adjust as needed to get roughly the same strength herbal simple syrup. Thanks!
Delicious, refreshing, light, cocktail. I loved the infused simple syrup, and definitely see more of these in my hand this summer. Cheers!
This recipe is a keeper!!
This is one of my favorite cocktails, and I enjoy it not only in the summer but year round! I just love the rosemary basil infused simple syrup – it’s so refreshing and unique. The simple syrup is easy to make and I always have it in my fridge ready to go!