Cook on a Whim: Grapefruit-Basil Gin & Tonic

How about a grapefruit-basil gin & tonic to celebrate these warmer days?

I created this cocktail using Malfy brand Gin Rosa, an infusion of Sicilian pink grapefruit, Italian juniper, Italian rhubarb and five other botanicals. Feel free to use your favorite gin — or even vodka — to make this.

I chose to pair it with grapefruit and basil to bring out the tart, floral, herb-y notes. It is officially my new favorite cocktail. And I am in love with the color!

Once I get my hands on some rhubarb, you better believe I’m making a rhubarb version of this …

Photo by Anita Parris Soule. Courtesy Cook on a Whim.

Grapefruit-Basil Gin & Tonic

For one (easily scaled up — just multiply the quantities)

Place the following in a cocktail shaker with ice:
• 2 oz. Malfy Gin Rosa
• 2 oz. freshly squeezed pink grapefruit juice
• sprig of fresh basil

Shake vigorously for 30 seconds. Strain into glass and top with 4 oz. of chilled tonic. (I recommend Q or Fever-Tree brand tonic. Good tonic, just like good gin, makes a HUGE difference.) You can also serve this strained over ice, but I just love using these beautiful coupe glasses. Garnish with a fresh grapefruit wedge and a basil sprig, then find a sunny spot and enjoy. Cin-cin!

Photo by Anita Parris Soule. Courtesy Cook on a Whim.

tagsAnita Parris SoulebasilcocktailCook on a WhimFever-Tree tonicgin & tonicItalian juniperItalian rhubarbMalfy Gin RosaQ tonicSicilian grapefruit