Emerald gimlet

Emerald Gimlet

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A vibrant, modern twist on the classic gimlet, infusing gin with fresh cucumber and basil for a crisp, garden-fresh cocktail with a striking emerald hue.

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Recipe

1 cocktail (115ml)
  • Gin 
    60 ml
  • Lime Juice 
    15 ml
  • Simple syrup (1:1) 
    15 ml
  • Basil leaves 
    4 leaves
  • Cucumber 
    5 slices
  • Soda Water 
    1 splash
  • Cucumber 
    1 wheel

Instructions

Step

In the shaker, gently muddle 4 cucumber slices and basil leaves with the simple syrup. Avoid over-muddling the basil as it can become bitter.

Step

Add gin and fresh lime juice to the shaker.

Step

Fill shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15 seconds to chill and properly dilute the mixture.

Step

Fine strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass to remove all muddled solids.

Step

Garnish with a thin cucumber wheel and fresh basil leaf floated on top for aromatic appeal.

Equipment

Shaker
Muddler
Fine Mesh Strainer
Jigger

Description

The Emerald Gimlet elevates the traditional gin-lime-sugar formula by incorporating fresh cucumber and basil, creating a sophisticated cocktail that is both familiar and innovative. This garden-to-glass creation combines the classic gimlet’s refreshing character with herbaceous complexity, making it perfect for summer evenings or as an elegant aperitif. The addition of fresh botanicals transforms the simple three-ingredient classic into a visually stunning and aromatically complex cocktail that celebrates the harmony between traditional mixology and contemporary botanical trends.

Nutritional information

1 cocktail (115ml)
Calories
145
ABV
20.8 %
Alcohol
19 g
Carbs
8.2 g
Carbs from Sugar
7.8 g
Fat
0.1 g
Protein
0.2 g
Sodium
2 mg
Nutritional information is approximate and includes estimated 30% dilution from ice. Values may vary based on specific brands and preparation methods.

Tips & Notes

  • Use fresh lime juice exclusively - bottled juice will not deliver the same brightness and acidity needed for this cocktail.

  • Choose a gin with botanical or floral notes to complement the fresh cucumber and basil - London Dry gins work particularly well.

  • Muddle gently to avoid bruising the basil, which can introduce bitter compounds and affect the cocktail's clean taste profile.

  • Fine straining is crucial for achieving the cocktail's signature clear, elegant appearance - double strain if necessary.

  • Pre-chill your glassware to maintain the cocktail's temperature and enhance the refreshing qualities of the cucumber and basil.

Yes, vodka creates a milder, less botanical base that allows the cucumber and basil to shine more prominently. Use a premium vodka and maintain the same proportions for best results.

Use the back of a bar spoon or even a wooden spoon handle to gently press the cucumber and basil. The key is gentle pressure to release oils without over-bruising the herbs.

Fresh mint creates a different but equally refreshing profile, while rosemary adds an earthy, pine-like complexity. Adjust quantities accordingly as some herbs are more potent than basil.

The cocktail is best served immediately after preparation. However, you can muddle ingredients and strain the mixture up to 2 hours ahead, then shake with ice and serve when needed.

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Cocktail Difficulty Levels

We’ve added a difficulty rating to every cocktail so you’ll know what to expect before you start mixing. It’s not about being “hard” or “easy” in the strict sense—it’s about how much preparation, skill, and hunting for ingredients you’ll need.

  • Beginner – Quick builds or simple shakes with common ingredients you’ll likely already have at home. Perfect for beginners or a casual evening.

  • Intermediate – A bit more technique (stirring, shaking, muddling, layering) and a few extra ingredients. You might need to buy one or two bottles or garnishes you don’t already stock.

  • Advanced – Multiple steps, specialty techniques (infusions, syrups, foams), or rare ingredients. These drinks take more effort and planning, but reward you with something truly impressive.

The rating is based on things like the number of ingredients, how rare they are, and the skills needed to bring the cocktail together.

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Quick recipe

Ingredients

  • Gin
    60 ml
  • Lime Juice
    15 ml
  • Simple syrup (1:1)
    15 ml
  • Basil leaves
    4 leaves
  • Cucumber
    5 slices
  • Soda Water
    1 splash
  • Cucumber
    1 wheel

Method

  1. In the shaker, gently muddle 4 cucumber slices and basil leaves with the simple syrup. Avoid over-muddling the basil as it can become bitter.
  2. Add gin and fresh lime juice to the shaker.
  3. Fill shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15 seconds to chill and properly dilute the mixture.
  4. Fine strain into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass to remove all muddled solids.
  5. Garnish with a thin cucumber wheel and fresh basil leaf floated on top for aromatic appeal.