Cocktail College The Gin Basil Smash
Jun 12, 2025
Join Joerg Meyer, a renowned bartender and owner of Le Lion bar in Hamburg, as he dives into the story behind his modern classic, the Gin Basil Smash. Discover how this vibrant cocktail emerged in 2008 and its unique blend of fresh basil and gin. Joerg shares tips for perfecting the drink and adapting it with various gins, while reflecting on the cocktail culture's evolution in Germany. He also discusses the challenges of bartending today and the importance of fresh ingredients in crafting memorable cocktails.
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Creation of Gin Basil Smash
- Jörg Meyer created the Gin Basil Smash in his Hamburg bar in 2008 during a slow summer night.
- He substituted mint with basil in a gin smash, which surprised guests with its bright green color and fresh taste.
Focus on One Signature Drink
- Staying focused on a single drink can build long-term fame and identity.
- Jörg chose to consistently promote the Gin Basil Smash despite industry pressure to be more creative.
Why Simple Cocktails Endure
- Simple, replicable drinks with relatable names spread widely and endure.
- Fame is driven more by story and timing than niche ingredients or complexity.