Classic Gin Smash

May 26, 2013 (Day 17) – Classic Gin Smash

One of the most popular (okay, the most popular) cocktails we’ve ever written about on these pages is the Gin Basil Smash.

However, this is based on a classic cocktail that preferred in Jerry Thomas’ original 1800s tome.

This one uses mint instead of basil, but still the base remains remarkably similar.

• Take 1 tea-spoonful of fine white sugar.
• 2 tea-spoonfuls of water.
• 1 wine-glass of gin.
• 3 or 4 sprigs of tender mint

Put the mint in the glass, then the sugar and water. Mash the mint to extract the flavor, add the gin, and fill up the glass with shaved ice. Stir up well, and ornament with two or three fresh sprigs of mint.