Question 1

Can I use another herb instead of basil?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of basil or just want to experiment, try this cocktail with mint, rosemary, or even thyme. Each herb brings its own unique flavor, but basil adds that subtle, peppery twist that pairs so well with gin.

Question 2

What kind of gin works best for a Tom Collins with basil?

Accepted Answer

A London dry gin is a great choice for this cocktail because it’s crisp, clean flavor won’t overpower the basil. However, if you’ve got a gin that has more herbal or floral notes, that can also work well with the basil’s flavor. Experiment with what you have—there’s no wrong choice here!

Question 3

Can I make this cocktail ahead of time?

Accepted Answer

I wouldn’t recommend making this too far in advance since it’s best enjoyed fresh. The carbonation from the soda water will start to go flat if it sits for too long. However, you can definitely prep your lemon and lime juice, make your simple syrup, and have everything ready to go. Then, when you're ready for a drink, it’ll only take a minute to shake up.

Question 4

What’s the difference between lemon juice and lime juice in this recipe?

Accepted Answer

Both lemon and lime juice bring different kinds of acidity to the drink. The lemon gives that bright, tangy punch you expect from a Tom Collins, while the lime adds a touch of bitterness that complements the basil. If you only have one of the two on hand, you can use just lemon juice and it’ll still taste great, but the lime really rounds out the flavor.

Question 5

Is this cocktail gluten-free?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the Basil Gin Tom Collins is naturally gluten-free, as it contains no ingredients that typically include gluten. Just be sure to double-check the brand of gin you're using if you're very sensitive to gluten, though most gins should be safe.

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