This cocktail has become one of my go-to drinks for summer evenings. Light, citrusy, and just a little herbal, the Riviera is the kind of drink you sip slowly, maybe with your feet up, while the sun winds down. It’s bright, refreshing, and easy to make at home—even if you’re not usually a cocktail person.
Riviera
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1 cocktail
Glass: Highball (or Martini glass for a fancier feel)
Ingredients
– 60 ml (2 oz) white rum
– 30 ml (1 oz) triple sec
– 15 ml (0.5 oz) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 15 ml (0.5 oz) simple syrup (*see tip below*)
– A small handful of fresh basil leaves
– Ice
– Basil sprig or lemon peel, for garnish
Method
- Start by adding the basil leaves to a cocktail shaker. Gently press them with a muddler or the back of a spoon—just enough to release their aroma. Don’t crush them too hard, or they’ll turn bitter.
- Pour in the white rum, triple sec, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
- Fill the shaker with ice, then shake it like you mean it—about 15 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Strain the drink into a highball glass filled with fresh ice. If you prefer a more elegant look, pour it into a chilled Martini glass instead.
- Top it off with a sprig of basil or a curl of lemon peel for that final aromatic touch.
Tips & Tricks
– Simple syrup: You can easily make this at home by mixing equal parts sugar and water, then heating until dissolved. Let it cool before using.
– Fresh is best: Use fresh lemon juice and fresh basil—these really make the drink pop.
– Don’t over-muddle: Press basil gently. Too much pressure brings out bitterness.
– Chill your glass: Pop it in the freezer while you mix. It helps keep the drink cold longer.
Make-Ahead Tip
You can batch the base (rum, triple sec, lemon juice, and syrup) ahead of time and keep it chilled in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just muddle fresh basil and shake with ice right before serving.
Ingredient Swaps
– No white rum? Use vodka for a smoother, lighter flavor.
– Out of basil? Try fresh mint or thyme for a different herbal twist.
– Watching sugar? Use honey or agave syrup instead of simple syrup—just use a little less, as they’re sweeter.
– No triple sec? Use another orange liqueur like Cointreau or Grand Marnier.
Flavor & Feel
The Riviera is crisp and citrusy with a soft herbal finish. It’s not too sweet, not too sour—just a lovely balance. The basil adds a fresh, garden-like note that really stands out. It smells as good as it tastes.
I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s one thing I’ve learned: the quality of your citrus makes a big difference. A juicy, ripe lemon will lift the whole drink.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Riviera with foods that match its light, zesty flavor:
Grilled Seafood
Shrimp, scallops, or white fish work beautifully. The citrus in the drink highlights the sweetness of the seafood.
Summer Salads
Try it with a fresh salad—think arugula, feta, and strawberries. The cocktail’s acidity cuts through creamy dressings.
Fruit Desserts
End on a sweet note with something fruity, like a berry tart or peach cobbler. The Riviera brings out those juicy flavors.
Variations to Try
Spicy Riviera
Add a thin slice of jalapeño to the shaker for a little heat. Shake it up and strain as usual.
Berry Riviera
Muddle a few raspberries or strawberries with the basil for a fruity twist. It adds a gorgeous color and flavor boost.
Tropical Riviera
Add 15 ml (0.5 oz) of pineapple juice and a splash of coconut milk. Shake well and garnish with a pineapple wedge.
Zero-Proof Riviera
Skip the alcohol and mix lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water with muddled basil. It’s just as refreshing, perfect for anyone skipping the booze.
Storage Notes
If you’ve batched the base (without the basil), store it in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 1 day. Shake with ice and fresh basil when ready to serve.
Q&A
Can I use dried basil?
Fresh is really best here. Dried basil doesn’t bring the same brightness, but in a pinch, use a tiny pinch—just know the flavor will change.
How do I make it less sweet?
Cut the simple syrup to 10 ml or swap in a sugar-free syrup. Taste as you go.
Can I batch this for a party?
Yes! Multiply the ingredients by how many guests you’re serving. Mix everything but the basil in a pitcher. Add basil and shake individual servings with ice before pouring.
What’s the best garnish?
A fresh basil sprig or a twist of lemon peel. They both add aroma and a nice finishing touch.
Common mistakes to avoid?
Don’t overdo the muddling. And don’t skimp on the ice—this drink needs to be cold to shine.
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The Riviera is one of those cocktails that feels special without being fussy. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re hosting friends or just winding down after work, it’s a drink that brings a little sunshine into your glass.
