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Looking for a sophisticated twist on the classic martini? Our herb-forward Basil Martini brings together the bright, aromatic notes of fresh basil with smooth vodka and citrus for an elevated cocktail experience. This refreshing interpretation has become a modern staple in upscale lounges, and we’re bringing this perfectly balanced recipe straight to your home bar.

A green basil martini garnished with lime and mint sits on a patterned tray on a marble surface, surrounded by lime halves and a mint sprig.

Watch 🎥 : How to make a Basil Martini Cocktail

What Is a Basil Martini Cocktail?

The Basil Martini represents a modern interpretation of the classic martini, joining the family of herb-infused cocktails that gained prominence as fresh ingredients became central to craft cocktail culture. This herbaceous cocktail combines clean vodka with fresh basil, mint, and citrus for a sophisticated yet approachable drink that’s particularly popular during the warmer months.

A basil martini garnished with lime twist and mint sits on a marble surface with a citrus juicer in the background.

What you’ll love about this recipe:

  • HERBACEOUS – The combination of fresh basil and mint creates an aromatic complexity that elevates this cocktail beyond a standard citrus martini.
  • UNIQUE – The precise balance of herbs, citrus, and vodka results in a clean, crisp cocktail that’s perfect for warm evening gatherings or sophisticated dinner parties.

What You Need to Make a Basil Martini Cocktail

  • Vodka: Choose a premium vodka with a clean, neutral profile to let the herbs shine through.
  • Fresh Basil Leaves: Select bright green, unblemished leaves for the best flavor and aroma.
  • Fresh Mint Leaves: Adds a cooling layer that complements the basil beautifully.
  • Lemon Juice: Always use freshly squeezed for the brightest flavor.
  • Simple Syrup: Provides balance to the citrus and helps extract oils from the herbs.

How to Make a Basil Martini Cocktail

  1. Place basil and mint leaves in your shaker with lemon juice and simple syrup. The citrus helps protect the herbs from oxidation while muddling.
  2. Gently muddle the herbs to release their essential oils without over-crushing, which can lead to bitterness.
  3. Add vodka and fill the shaker with ice.
  4. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds until well-chilled.
  5. Double strain into a chilled martini glass to ensure no herb particles make it into the final drink.
  • A hand drops basil leaves into a patterned glass on a white coaster, with a lemon squeezer in the background.
    Add the fresh basil and mint.
  • Using a metal juicer, a lemon slice is squeezed over herb-filled glass on marble.
    Squeeze the lemon juice.
  • A hand pours simple syrup from a brass jigger into a glass with basil leaves on a marble surface, surrounded by a citrus juicer and lemon slices.
    Add the simple syrup.
  • A hand muddles a glass of basil leaves on marble, surrounded by basil leaves and a citrus juicer.
    Muddle.
  • A person pours vodka from a brass jigger into a glass on a marble surface beside basil leaves.
    Add the vodka.
  • A hand strains a basil martini cocktail into a coupe glass on a marble counter with limes and a citrus squeezer.
    Shake over ice and strain.

Expert Recipe Tips

  • Tip 1: Chill your martini glass in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before serving to maintain optimal temperature.
  • Tip 2: When muddling herbs, press just enough to release the oils – aggressive muddling can result in bitter flavors.
  • Tip 3: For an extra layer of complexity, try infusing your vodka with basil for 24 hours before making the cocktail.
A basil martini cocktail in a coupe glass, garnished with lime twist and mint leaves, rests on a light tray.

How to Serve This Basil Martini Cocktail

Serve in a properly chilled martini glass and garnish with a fresh basil leaf or a small basil sprig. For an elegant touch, float a single drop of high-quality olive oil on top to enhance the herb’s aromatics.

More Cocktail Recipes

SEE MORE COCKTAILS

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Basil Martini Recipe

A contemporary twist on the classic martini featuring fresh basil, mint, and citrus. This sophisticated cocktail combines premium vodka with garden-fresh herbs for a perfectly balanced drinking experience.
Print Recipe
A basil martini garnished with lime twist and mint sits on a marble surface with a citrus juicer in the background.
Prep Time:5 minutes
Total Time:5 minutes

Ingredients

  • 3 oz vodka
  • 1 oz lemon juice
  • 2 oz simple syrup
  • 5 basil leaves
  • 3 mint leaves

Instructions

  • Add the basil leaves, mint leaves, lemon juice and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker.
  • Muddle to break up the basil leaves.
  • Add ice and vodka and shake until chilled.
  • Strain into a martini glass and garnish.

Video

Servings: 1 cocktail

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this cocktail without mint leaves?

While mint adds complexity, you can make this cocktail using only basil for a more focused herb profile. Increase the basil leaves to 7 if omitting mint.

What’s the best vodka to use in a Basil Martini?

We recommend a premium vodka with a minimal flavor profile, like Ketel One or Grey Goose, to let the herbs shine through.

Can I make this drink ahead of time?

We don’t recommend it, as the fresh herbs will oxidize and lose their vibrant flavor. For best results, mix this cocktail just before serving.

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Award-winning cocktail maker, picture taker, content writer, editor, and all around imbiber behind the Libation Chronicles and a few other fun projects.

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