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Ingredients
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Base Spirit
Citrus & Sweetener
Bright & Aromatic
Effervescence & Finish
Ice & Optional
Method
Prep
- 1
Rim (optional)
If using a salted or Tajín rim, rub a lime wedge around the glass rim and dip the rim into a shallow dish of salt or Tajín. Set glass aside.
- 2
Gather and measure all ingredients. Have fresh citrus juiced and basil leaves gently bruised between fingers to release aroma.
Build & Shake
- 3
Add the basil leaves to a cocktail shaker. Gently muddle with a few quick presses — you only want oils and aroma, not complete pulverization.
- 4
Add blanco tequila (1.5 oz), fresh lime juice (0.75 oz), fresh grapefruit juice (0.5 oz), orange liqueur (0.5 oz) and agave syrup (0.5 oz) to the shaker.
- 5
Fill the shaker with ice (enough to chill well, about 1 cup). Secure the lid and shake vigorously for 12–15 seconds until the shaker is very cold to the touch.
Strain & Finish
- 6
Double-strain the cocktail into the prepared glass over fresh ice (use a fine mesh strainer in addition to the shaker strainer to keep bits of basil out).
- 7
Top gently with club soda (about 2 oz) to add a light effervescence. Give the drink one gentle stir to integrate soda without flattening the bubbles.
- 8
Garnish with a grapefruit twist or a lime wheel and a small basil leaf. Serve immediately.
