Secret Garden Recipe

Prepare the fresh aromatics

In a mixing glass or shaker, place the cucumber slices and basil leaves. Add the simple syrup and fresh lime juice. Gently muddle 6–8 times until the cucumber releases juice and the basil is aromatic but not completely pulverized (over-muddling makes herbs bitter).

Add spirits

Pour in the gin and optional cucumber vodka. Add a handful of ice to the shaker (enough to chill well).

Secure the shaker and shake vigorously for 10–12 seconds until well-chilled (shaker will frost). Double-strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or flute using a fine mesh strainer to remove bits of basil and cucumber. If you prefer a more pronounced cucumber presence, single strain into a highball with ice instead.

Top the strained cocktail with 3 oz chilled Prosecco (and a splash of club soda if you want extra fizz). Give a gentle stir once to integrate the sparkling wine without flattening it.

Garnish with a long cucumber ribbon draped inside the glass or a small sprig of basil perched on the rim. Serve immediately.

This 'Secret Garden' is best served cold and consumed fresh so the bubbles and herbaceous aromas remain vivid. Adjust simple syrup to taste for more or less sweetness. To make a pitcher: multiply ingredients by number of servings and add Prosecco only when serving.