Meyer Lemon and Basil Margarita

The Meyer Lemon and Basil Margarita is not just any cocktail—it’s a perfect blend of flavors that exemplify the art of mixology. This drink combines the sweet taste of Meyer lemons with the fragrant aroma of fresh basil, resulting in a harmonious combination that represents the pinnacle of contemporary cocktails. Every sip of this drink will transport you to a sensory world where culinary and cocktail arts merge into a delightful blend of flavors and scents.

What are Meyer lemons?

Meyer lemons are a distinct variety of citrus fruit believed to be a hybrid between a regular lemon and a mandarin orange. They possess several characteristics that differentiate them from other lemons. For instance, they have a sweeter, less acidic taste, a deeper yellow-to-orange skin color, and a more floral scent, all indicating a Mandarin influence.

Moreover, their smaller size, rounder shape, and thinner skin suggest a genetic blend between these citrus fruits. This hybrid nature was discovered after they were introduced to the United States in the early 20th century, and subsequent horticultural analysis and genetic studies have supported this belief, highlighting the Meyer lemon’s unique position in the citrus family.

The Meyer Lemon and Basil Margarita perfectly exemplify balance and contrast. Tequila blanco is the base of this cocktail due to its clean and crisp taste, which serves as an ideal canvas for other ingredients.

The subtle and floral notes of tequila blanco complement the sweetness of Meyer lemons, which bring a unique flavor to the drink. Meyer lemons are different from other citrus fruits as they have a complex flavor profile that is sweet and tangy, elevating the drink from just another ordinary margarita.

Basil syrup is a stroke of genius, adding a herbal freshness that blends beautifully with the citrusy taste of Meyer lemons. Preparing basil syrup requires a gentle process of simmering sugar and water and then infusing the syrup with fresh basil leaves. This process extracts the essence of basil, with its peppery, slightly sweet profile, creating a syrup that adds a taste of summer gardens and sun-drenched afternoons when added to the cocktail.

Triple sec or Cointreau is added to the drink to introduce a subtle, bitter orange flavor that complements the sweetness of Meyer lemons and the herbal notes of basil. The choice between triple sec and Cointreau depends on personal preference, with Cointreau offering a smoother, more rounded orange flavor that enhances the overall harmony of the cocktail.

The presentation of this cocktail is as elegant and refined as its taste. The option to salt the rim of the glass adds a tactile and flavor contrast that highlights the drink’s sweet and herbal notes. The drink can be served on the rocks in a salt-rimmed glass or a chilled cocktail glass, always garnished with a fresh basil leaf and a thin slice of Meyer lemon resting gracefully on the rim, inviting you to take the first sip.

The Meyer Lemon and Basil Margarita is an exceptional cocktail for any occasion. It is refreshing yet sophisticated, ideal for those who appreciate the art of mixology and the joy of discovering new flavors. Every sip promises to deliver a taste of the extraordinary, a cocktail that refreshes the palate and inspires the imagination.

Meyer Lemon and Basil Margarita

5 from 1 vote

Recipe by Kyle Taylor Course: CocktailsCuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

1

servings

Total time

45

minutes

The Meyer Lemon and Basil Margarita is a refreshing cocktail that blends sweet Meyer lemons with fresh basil for a sophisticated twist on the classic margarita.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces 2 tequila

• 2 ounces 2 Meyer lemon juice, freshly squeezed

• 1 ounce 1 basil syrup

• 1/2 ounce 1/2 triple sec or Cointreau

• for rimming, salt

• for garnish, fresh basil

• for garnish, Meyer lemon slice

• For the Basil Syrup

• 1/2 cup 1/2 sugar

• 1/2 cup 1/2 water

• 1/2 cup 1/2 basil leaves

Directions

• Make the Basil Syrup:
  In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat, add basil leaves, and let steep for 20-30 minutes to infuse the syrup with basil flavor.
  
  Strain the syrup into a clean jar, pressing on the basil leaves to extract as much flavor as possible. Let it cool before using. This syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Prepare the Glass:
  If you like a salted rim, run a Meyer lemon wedge around the rim of your glass, then dip the rim in salt. Set aside.
• Mix the Margarita:
  Combine the tequila, fresh Meyer lemon juice, basil syrup, and triple sec in a shaker. Fill the shaker with ice. Shake well for 15-20 seconds.
• Serve:
  Strain the margarita into the prepared glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish with a fresh basil leaf and a slice of Meyer lemon.