This is the most delicious grapefruit gin cocktail and such a fun twist on a classic gin and tonic. I adore the tart, bitter, slightly sweet flavor of grapefruit and it pairs so well with the floral, herby notes of gin. A tiny hint of basil and you've got yourself the most beautiful and flavorful grapefruit gin cocktail. Summertime in a glass - I mean, that color! I can't get over it! I just had to put it in my fanciest glasses and take a million pictures of it.
Grapefruit Gin and Tonic with Basil
I created this recipe for Malfy Gin and I just had to share the recipe here on my blog because I loved it so much and it was so well-received on Instagram.
Funny story: I never thought I liked gin. Like, I thought I hated gin. That is until I tried good gin. Boy what a difference the good stuff makes. I am by no means a gin expert, but this Malfy Gin Rosa is so delicious - so smooth and elegant. Another favorite is Barr Hill. I'm really trying to provide more variety here on the blog, and with the hot weather coming up you can expect to see more ice cream recipes and more cocktails and drinks here. I'm excited! Let's get started!
What do I need to make this Grapefruit Gin Cocktail?
Gin - of course I recommend Malfy Gin Rosa, but any gin you love will work.
Fresh Grapefruit - ruby reds if you want that color!
Tonic - good tonic makes a difference, trust me. Go for Q brand or Fever Tree.
Basil - this is of course optional, but the hint of herby flavor is so special
That's it!
Just shake it up or muddle it, strain into glasses and top with tonic. So easy and so satisfying. This recipe is easily multiplied. If you wanted to make a pitcher, I'd suggest just muddling the grapefruit, basil, and gin in the bottom of the pitcher, let it sit in the fridge to marry the flavors, then add tonic just before serving to guests so it doesn't lose its fizziness.
I hope you'll give this recipe a try!
Let me know what you think. As always, it would mean so much if you'd leave my recipe a comment and a rating as it really helps me out and helps others find my recipes on these vast interwebs.
Grapefruit Basil Gin and Tonic
The most refreshing summertime cocktail. Tart and just a little bit sweet.
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 ounces Grapefruit flavored Gin - I recommend Malfy brand Gin Rosa
- 2 ounces freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
- 1 sprig of fresh basil
- 4 ounces tonic - I recommend Q brand or Fever Tree
- grapefruit wedges and basil sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- Combine gin, grapefruit juice, and basil in a cocktail shaker or jar with tightly fitting lid.
- Shake vigorously for 30 seconds.
- Strain into glasses and top with tonic.
- Garnish with basil sprigs and fresh grapefruit wedges.
Notes
This can also be served over ice. If you are not using the cocktail shaker, make sure to muddle the grapefruit and basil to release the flavors before adding gin, stirring, straining over ice and topping with tonic.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: n/a
- Category: cocktails
Chef Mimi says
Last year I bought an electric citrus juicer. Expensive, and so worth it. Now I always have juiced citrus in my fridge, and it’s so handy! So tonight I’m making this cocktail! Minus the basil. I guess I’m too old fashioned for botanical cocktails.
Anita Parris Soule | Cook on a Whim says
Thanks Mimi! It's so good! with or without the basil 😉 I hope you love it! - Anita