The Best Basil Gin Gimlet

I had an amazing gin gimlet the other day at Five, a new lounge in Berkeley. Julio the Bartender generously shared the secret with me:

In a shaker with ice, put 1-1/2 oz gin, 1-1/2 oz fresh lime juice and 1/2 oz simple syrup. Add 2 or 3 basil leaves that you have torn in half or thirds. Bruise, don't muddle, the leaves gently with the back of a bar spoon against the side of the shaker.

Shake briefly and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Sip and savor your tasty, frosty, refreshing drink!

Bar Tips:

• Fresh lime juice is crucial here; the plastic lime or Rose's won't do.
• There's a lot of difference in taste from one gin to another. You do have to use a good gin. There are many, but my fave is Tanqueray, which is around the mid-point of the expense continuum.