We received a ton of gorgeous basil in our CSA this week, and I have cherries on hand because – well – I’ve been craving everything cherry recently. Chicken and cherries, cherry smoothies, so why not add some cherries to the everyone’s favorite summer cocktail?
And then it dawned on me that both cherries and basil would sing with joy when they were combined with gin.
The combination of the fruit and herbs also inspired me to pull out my grandmother’s wine glasses to toast in her honor. She would have been 101 this week, and I can say with absolute certainty that she would have loved this cocktail.
So, happy birthday, Grammy. These are for you.
Cherry Basil Gin and Tonics
Serves 2.
Ingredients:
3 cherries, pits removed
1 large basil leaf, julienned
4 oz. good gin
2 teaspoons lemon juice
8 oz. tonic water
Ice cubes
Instructions:
Muddle the cherries and basil together in a small bowl.
Add the gin and lemon juice, and let it infuse for 15 minutes.
Divide the gin between two glasses, and add ice and tonic.
Clink glasses and enjoy!
(Photos by Launie Kettler)
I’ve joined the “cherries and berries singing with joy”! Great recipe. Thank you. I am really enjoying it.
Dale,
Thank you so much! I’m really happy you enjoyed the recipe.
Cheers!
Launie