Drink of the Week: Blue Basil Cooler
Some cocktails catch your eye before they ever reach your lips. The Blue Basil Cooler is one of them.
While its vibrant hue makes it an instant conversation starter, this refreshing highball is far more than just a pretty pour.
KO Distilling’s bold Battle Standard 142 Navy Strength Gin provides a robust botanical backbone that’s balanced by fragrant basil, fresh lime juice, a subtle touch of blue curaçao, and a crisp splash of tonic. The result is bright, herbaceous, citrus-forward, and surprisingly refreshing, making it the perfect cocktail for warm-weather sipping.
Fun Fact: Why is it called Navy Strength Gin? The name dates back to the British Royal Navy, where ships carried large stores of gin alongside gunpowder. To ensure the spirit was strong enough, the Navy required it to be bottled at 57% ABV (114 proof).
At that strength, if the gin accidentally soaked the ship’s gunpowder, the powder would still ignite. Today, Navy Strength gin remains prized for its bold flavor and higher proof, making it a favorite among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts alike.
Preparation
Add the gin, basil simple syrup, lime juice, and blue curaçao to a Collins glass filled with ice.
Top with chilled tonic water and gently stir to combine.
Garnish with fresh basil leaf and a lime wedge.
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