Berry Basil Lemonade Pitcher

Mix this quick and simple crowd-pleaser in a big jug, using fresh berries. Or consider frozen ones, which will provide extra chill without as much dilution. 

By Charlene Rooke

6 to 12 leaves fresh basil, plus more for garnish
6 to 12 leaves fresh mint, plus more for garnish
6 oz mixed fresh or frozen berries, plus more for garnish
1½ cups (375 mL) chilled gin
2 oz grenadine, such as Dillon’s Niagara Grenadine, or more to taste
6 cups (1.5 L) chilled lemonade, homemade or purchased 
4 dashes Dillon’s Rhubarb Bitters (optional)
1 can (355 mL) chilled sparkling lemonade or citrus-flavoured sparkling water

1 Add herbs and berries to a large serving pitcher and lightly muddle using a wooden spoon until fragrant. Add gin, grenadine, lemonade and bitters (if desired) and mix thoroughly. Adjust sweetness with more grenadine, if desired. Top with sparkling lemon beverage and stir gently. 

2 Fill individual serving glasses with ice and lemonade mixture, and add additional whole berries and herb leaves for garnish, if desired.

Makes 8 drinks