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Ingredients
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Base & Spirits
Citrus & Sweetening
Herbal / Aromatic
Finish & Garnish
Method
Base & Muddle
- 1
Place 6 fresh basil leaves into a cocktail shaker. Add the fresh lime juice and white simple syrup. Gently muddle the basil with the liquids just enough to release aromatic oils — avoid pulverizing so the drink doesn't become bitter.
- 2
Add 2 oz blanco tequila and 0.5 oz dry vermouth to the shaker.
Build & Chill
- 3
Fill the shaker with about 1 cup of ice, add 2 dashes of orange bitters, then secure the lid.
- 4
Shake
Vigorously shake for 12–15 seconds until the shaker feels very cold and well chilled (this both chills and slightly dilutes the mixture).
Strain & Serve
- 5
Fill a rocks glass with approximately 6 ice cubes. Double-strain the cocktail into the prepared glass through a fine strainer (to catch basil bits) so the texture is smooth.
- 6
Garnish
Express the oils of a basil sprig over the surface by lightly clapping the leaves between your palms, then drop the sprig into the glass. Float a lime wheel on the rim or on top of the ice.