Strawberry Basil Balsamic Cocktail: Aromatic Strawberry Basil Gin Cocktail

A great cocktail should tell a story. This one tells it with confidence. The Strawberry Basil Balsamic Cocktail is sweet, herbal and refreshing with a savory twist that makes people stop and ask for the recipe. If you love a strawberry basil gin cocktail or you have been hunting for a simple gin and tonic with strawberry and basil variation, you are in the right place. This drink is bright and modern with a finish that feels chef driven.

The Story Behind This Summer Cocktail

This recipe comes to us from our friend Miranda Hodge, also known as The Bevographer. She partners often with Julia McLish of Barkeep OKC. You can find our products in Julia’s shop. We love working with talented women who build beautiful things. That spirit shows up in this cocktail.

A Guide to Our Cocktail Ingredients

Every ingredient has a job to do.

• Dry Gin: The botanical base lifts the strawberry and basil. Crisp. Clean. Balanced.
• Basil Simple Syrup: This brings the herbal heart of the drink. Fresh basil gives a peppery note you cannot buy in a bottle.
• Fresh Strawberries: They build the fruit body and the natural sweetness.
• Summer Berries Bitters: A few dashes add a concentrated hit of ripe berry flavor. Jammy but never heavy.
• Balsamic and olive oil: A small spoonful adds savory depth and a gentle acidity that makes this cocktail unforgettable.
  

The Strawberry Basil Balsamic Cocktail Recipe

Makes one cocktail

Ingredients

• 3 oz dry gin (I used @brokersgin)
• 0.5 oz basil simple syrup (recipe below)
• 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
  
• 3 fresh strawberries
  
• 5 dashes  El Guapo™ Summer Berries Bitters
• 1 bar spoon balsamic and olive oil mixture
  
• Fresh strawberries, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Gently muddle the strawberries in a shaker.
   
2. Add gin, basil syrup, lemon juice and Summer Berries Bitters.
   
3. Fill with ice and shake until cold.
   
4. Double strain into a Nick and Nora or coupe glass.
   
5. Garnish with a strawberry.
   
6. Finish with a bar spoon of the balsamic and olive oil mixture.

To make Basil Simple Syrup:

1. Bring one cup of water to a boil.
   
2. Remove from heat and stir in one cup of sugar and half a cup of chopped basil.
   
3. Let it cool.
   
4. Refrigerate overnight for stronger flavor.
   
5. Strain and store for up to one week.

A Strawberry Basil Gin And Tonic Variation

Sometimes you want something lighter. This take keeps the same flavor profile with a sparkling lift.

Makes one cocktail

• 2 oz dry gin
• 4-5 fresh strawberries, muddled
• 3 fresh basil leaves, muddled
• 4 dashes El Guapo® Summer Berries Bitters
• Tonic water
• Ice

Instructions:

1. Gently muddle strawberries and basil in a highball glass.
   
2. Add gin and bitters.
   
3. Fill with ice.
   
4. Top with tonic and give it a gentle stir.
   
5. Garnish with a strawberry and basil leaf.

The Savory Twist: Balsamic and Summer Berries Bitters

Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo’s homepage to explore everything we offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes. Frozen berries work well once they soften. They often taste even sweeter.

What gin works best?

A London Dry gin is perfect. It keeps the drink crisp. Floral American gins work if you want a softer style.

What is the difference between the two cocktails?

The Strawberry Basil Gin Cocktail is a sour with texture and citrus structure. The gin and tonic version is a lighter highball with bubbles and a bittersweet finish.