Basil Betty

Gin Cocktails

Apr 19

COCKTAIL INGREDIENTS:
- 60 ml Gin
- 15 ml Aperol
- 30 ml Simple Syrup
- 30 ml Fresh Lemon Juice
- 3 Basil Leaves

GARNISH:
- Orange Twist
- Sprig of Basil

INSTRUCTIONS:
• Combine all of the ingredients in a cocktail shaker.
• Add ice and shake until chilled.
• Double strain into a cocktail glass over fresh pebble ice.
• Garnish with an orange twist and a sprig of basil.

Cocktail author: wife of Steve the Bartender.

Basil Betty is built by using Basil Daisy as an inspiration, but substituting vodka with gin – great choice in my opinion. Basil and Aperol, does not seem like a natural flavour pairing, even slightly odd, yet in a company of gin and lemon it turns into remarkably refreshing cocktail – a hint of summer in a glass.

Base of the cocktail is London Dry gin with those familiar juniper notes as well as hints of coriander and citrus. Subtle citrus notes work as a bridge when pairing with the bitter-sweet flavour of Aperol. Fresh lemon juice brings an element of tartness and freshness, livening up the drink. Simple syrup restores the balance and allows the subtle undertones of other ingredients to shine through. Finally, a touch of basil introduces a different herbal direction with a hint of coolness increasing the cocktail complexity and creating a unique flavour profile.

Basil Betty is a fresh, sharp and bright cocktail, perfectly suited for the warm days ahead.