Cucumber Basil Gimlet Takes On The Classic Gin Gimlet

A Garden in a Glass: The Cucumber Basil Gimlet

Welcome to Shake, Sip, Serve, your one-stop shop for all things bartending.

I’m your host, KAD, and I’ve been slinging drinks and navigating the world of hospitality for over two decades.
The past 15 years, I’ve perfected my bartending skills, experimented with countless flavor combinations, and learning a thing or two about how to keep the party going behind the bar.

Whether you’re a seasoned bartender like me just looking for some fresh inspiration or a complete beginner who is eager to whip up impressive cocktails at home, Shake, Sip, Serve is here to be your guide.

In the below blog, I’ll be sharing my knowledge and experience on everything from classic cocktails and innovative new creations to essential bartending techniques and industry secrets. I’ll also be offering tips on stocking your home bar, mastering the art of presentation, and creating a memorable experience for your guests.

So, grab your shaker, dust off your favorite glassware, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of bartending!
Let’s Shake, Sip, and Serve up something amazing together.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

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Why the Gimlet Deserves a Modern Refresh

The Gimlet dates back to the 1800s when British sailors mixed gin with lime juice to ward off scurvy. Crisp, simple, and sharp — it’s long been a staple of classic cocktail culture.

Fast forward to today, and bartenders across the world are refreshing old favourites with local produce and garden-fresh twists. Enter the Cucumber Basil Gimlet: cooling cucumber, aromatic basil, and zesty lime all shaken with a clean gin base.

In Australia, where summers can be scorching, this variation is the perfect refresher. It feels like sipping a garden breeze.

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The Cucumber Basil Gimlet Recipe (AU Measurements)

Serves: 1

Ingredients

• 45 ml gin (London Dry or Australian craft gin like Four Pillars or Archie Rose)

• 22 ml fresh lime juice (about 1 medium lime)

• 15 ml cucumber juice (muddle fresh cucumber or run through a juicer)

• 15 ml basil simple syrup (or muddle fresh basil + regular simple syrup)

• Ice cubes

• Garnish: basil sprig + cucumber slice

Method

1. Optional muddle – If not using basil syrup, muddle 3–4 basil leaves in your shaker.

2. Add liquids – Gin, lime juice, cucumber juice, syrup.

3. Shake – Fill shaker with ice and shake hard for 15 seconds.

4. Strain – Fine strain into a chilled coupe glass.

5. Garnish – Basil sprig and cucumber wheel for aroma and freshness.

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Why This Cocktail Works

• Cucumber brings hydration, lightness, and spa-like refreshment.

• Basil adds savoury depth and an aromatic lift.

• Gin with botanical character ties everything together.

• Lime balances sharpness with acidity.

It’s a cocktail that feels healthy without losing any of its punch.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Gimlet

• Choose your gin wisely – Dry gins highlight lime; botanical gins amplify basil.

• Juice fresh cucumber – Bottle juice oxidises quickly; fresh gives bright flavour.

• Syrup secrets – Basil simple syrup (1:1 sugar/water infused with basil) adds sweetness and consistency.

• Glassware matters – A coupe gives elegance; a rocks glass over ice makes it casual.
  
  

  Variations on the Cucumber Basil Gimlet

  • Sparkling Gimlet – Top with soda or even a splash of sparkling wine.

  • Spicy Gimlet – Muddle a thin jalapeño slice for subtle heat.

  • Herbal Twist – Swap basil for mint, coriander, or lemon thyme.

  • Zero-Alc Gimlet – Use a non-alcoholic gin alternative; perfect for inclusive entertaining and RSA best practice in Australia.

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  Food Pairings

  The Cucumber Basil Gimlet is versatile. Try pairing with:

  • Seafood: Grilled prawns, barramundi, ceviche.

  • Salads: Caprese with fresh tomatoes + basil, or watermelon + feta salad.

  • Spicy mains: Thai curries, Mexican tacos, Indian tikka.

  • Brunch plates: Avocado toast, smoked salmon bagels, eggs Florentine.

  Its crisp acidity and herbal lift cut beautifully through spice, richness, and creamy textures.

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  Hosting with the Cucumber Basil Gimlet

  • Batching tip: Scale up the recipe in a jug (without ice). Shake or stir individual serves with fresh ice when ready.

  • Presentation: Pre-freeze coupe glasses and rim lightly with sea salt for added contrast.

  • Mocktail option: Replace gin with cucumber water + a dash of elderflower cordial.

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  FAQs

  Can I make cucumber juice without a juicer?
  Yes. Roughly chop cucumber, muddle heavily, and strain through a fine sieve or muslin cloth.

  What’s the best gin for this cocktail?
  A London Dry for crispness, or try an Australian craft gin like Four Pillars Rare Dry or Brookie’s for botanicals that complement basil.

  Can I make it less sweet?
  Absolutely. Reduce or skip the basil syrup and rely on muddled basil for flavour.

  Is this cocktail RSA-friendly?
  Like all gin-based drinks, it contains alcohol (~1.3 standard drinks per serve depending on gin strength). Always serve responsibly, and consider offering the mocktail version for guests. For RSA guidelines in NSW, see Liquor & Gaming NSW.

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  Conclusion: Garden Fresh in a Glass

  The Cucumber Basil Gimlet takes a 19th-century naval classic and dresses it up for the modern Australian summer. Crisp cucumber, aromatic basil, and tart lime harmonise over a clean gin base for a drink that’s as refreshing as it is elegant.

  It’s proof that sometimes, the simplest tweaks — fresh garden produce and a little imagination — can transform a cocktail into something unforgettable.
  
  

  The bartending community is a vibrant and supportive one, and I’m excited to build that community here on Shake, Sip, Serve.

  I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences in the comments below.
  What are you shaking up these days?
  What topics would you like to see covered in future posts?
  Let’s connect and continue the conversation!

  Liquor & Gaming NSW: This website provides information on liquor licensing, responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training, and regulations for serving alcohol in NSW. It’s essential for anyone working in the hospitality industry in NSW. You can find it here: https://www.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au

  
  
  

The Cucumber Basil Gimlet: A Refreshing Aussie Twist on a Classic

The Gimlet – it’s a classic cocktail with a history as interesting as its flavour. Back in the 1800s, British sailors used to drink gin with lime juice to prevent scurvy. They called it a Gimlet, named after a navy doctor who apparently came up with the idea.

But we’re not here to talk about the old-school Gimlet. We’re here to talk about the Cucumber Basil Gimlet, a modern twist that’s perfect for a hot Aussie day. With fresh cucumber and basil, it’s like a garden party in a glass.

Why We Love the Cucumber Basil Gimlet

• Fresh and flavourful: The cucumber adds a refreshing coolness, and the basil gives it a beautiful aroma.
• Easy to make: You don’t need to be a fancy bartender to make this one.
• Perfect for summer: It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for sipping by the pool.

Making the Cucumber Basil Gimlet: Aussie Style

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 45ml Gin: A London Dry gin is a good choice, but use your favourite.
• 22ml Fresh Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed, please!
• 15ml Cucumber Juice: Muddle some cucumber or use a juicer.
• 15ml Basil Simple Syrup (optional): This adds sweetness and basil flavour.
• Garnish: A basil sprig and a cucumber slice.

Here’s how you do it:

1. Muddle the basil (optional): If you’re not using basil simple syrup, muddle some basil leaves in your shaker.
2. Combine the ingredients: Add the gin, lime juice, cucumber juice, and simple syrup (or basil simple syrup) to your shaker with ice.
3. Shake it up: Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
4. Strain and serve: Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Garnish: Add a basil sprig and a cucumber slice.

Tips for a Top-Notch Gimlet

• Use good quality gin: It makes a difference.
• Fresh lime juice is key: Don’t use that bottled stuff.
• Make your own cucumber juice: It’s easy and tastes better.
• Try basil simple syrup: It adds a nice touch.
• Get creative with garnishes: Try different herbs or fruits.

Gimlet Variations

• Sparkling Gimlet: Add a splash of soda water or champagne.
• Spicy Gimlet: Muddle a slice of jalapeno in the shaker.

Food Pairing Ideas

• Seafood: Grilled fish, shrimp, ceviche.
• Salads: Greek salad, Caprese salad.
• Spicy Dishes: Thai food, Mexican food, Indian curries.
• Brunch: Eggs Benedict, avocado toast, smoked salmon bagels.

More Than Just a Drink

The Cucumber Basil Gimlet is more than just a cocktail – it’s a refreshing escape and a taste of summer. It’s perfect for any occasion, from a backyard barbie to a fancy dinner party.

 

Thanks for joining us behind the bar! 

The bartending community is a vibrant and supportive one, and I’m excited to build that community here on Shake, Sip, Serve. I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences in the comments below. What are you shaking up these days? What topics would you like to see covered in future posts? Let’s connect and continue the conversation!

GET TO KNOW KAD xo

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