If you’re looking for a cool, refreshing cocktail to sip by the pool, this Watermelon Basil Gimlet checks every box. It’s light, vibrant, and incredibly easy to make. Fresh watermelon brings natural sweetness, basil adds a subtle herbal note, and gin keeps everything crisp and balanced.
This is one of my go-to summer cocktails, especially when entertaining. I highly recommend batching it in advance so you can spend more time relaxing and less time playing bartender.
Selecting Gin
The Watermelon Basil Gimlet is all about balance—juicy, herbal, and refreshing—so choosing the right gin really matters. A good gin made with quality botanicals provides a clean backbone that lets the watermelon and basil shine instead of competing with them.
My Favorite Gins
The Botanist: Known for its 22 hand-foraged local botanicals, this gin offers a complex yet balanced flavor, making it great for wide range of cocktails. This gin is widely available in most stores at a moderate price, making it a convenient option.
Empress 1908: Infused with butterfly pea blossom which provides a signature indigo hue, Empress has soft floral notes that pair wonderfully with citrus. The eye-catching color is great for when you want to add a bit of visual flair to your drink.
Barr Hill: This American gin is distilled with raw honey, imparting a natural sweetness that beautifully complements and enhances its botanical flavors. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a hint of sweetness, and intriguing depth in their cocktails.
My go-to gin for this recipe is The Botanist. Its a smooth, well-rounded flavor that perfectly complements the refreshing elements of this cocktail.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect for Pool Parties: Serve this cocktail in clear glasses to show off its beautiful pink hue. Consider garnishing with mini watermelon wedges and a basil leaf.
Pair It with Light Bites: The Watermelon Basil Gimlet pairs wonderfully with light summer fare like grilled shrimp, caprese skewers, or a fresh fruit salad.
Keep It Cold: To keep your drinks cold on hot summer days, chill your glasses in the freezer or add a few frozen watermelon cubes instead of regular ice.
Watermelon Basil Gimlet
Equipment
- 1 Cocktail Shaker
Ingredients
- 2 oz Gin The Botanist or similar
- 4 Basil Leaves
- 2 oz Watermelon Juice
- 1 oz Lime Juice
- 1 oz Simple Syrup
Instructions
- Make a simple syrup by simmering equal parts sugar and water. For extra basil flavor, remove from heat and steep basil leaves for 10 minutes. Refrigerate to cool.
- Combine the gin, simple syrup, watermelon juice, basil leaves, and lime juice in a cocktail shaker. Add ice and shake for about 30 seconds.
- Strain into a highball glass over ice. Garnish with a watermelon slice and basil leaf.
