A Wimbledon cocktail is the taste of summer in a glass—fresh, fruity, and effortlessly elegant. Inspired by the iconic tennis tournament, this drink blends sweet strawberries, bright citrus, and a splash of bubbly for a refreshing sip that’s perfect for warm afternoons. Whether you’re watching a match or just unwinding, this cocktail is a winner every time.
Wimbledon
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 1.5 oz (45ml) vodka
- 3-4 large fresh strawberries
- A small handful of fresh basil leaves
- 0.5 oz (15ml) simple syrup
- 0.5 oz (15ml) fresh lemon juice
- A splash of Champagne or sparkling wine
Glassware: A highball glass is classic for this cocktail, showing off its vibrant layers. A martini glass works too if you want a more refined presentation.
How to Make It
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle the strawberries and basil until they’re well crushed and releasing their flavors.
- Add the vodka, simple syrup, and lemon juice.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake well for about 10 seconds to chill everything.
- Strain into a chilled highball glass filled with ice.
- Top with a splash of Champagne and gently stir.
- Garnish with a fresh strawberry or a basil leaf.
Tips for the Best Wimbledon Cocktail
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the sweetest flavor. If they’re out of season, frozen strawberries (thawed) can work too.
- Pour the Champagne gently to keep the bubbles lively.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less simple syrup to suit your taste.
I’ve made this drink countless times, and one trick I’ve learned is to clap the basil leaves between your hands before muddling—it releases even more aroma and flavor into the cocktail.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- You can muddle the strawberries, basil, lemon juice, and syrup ahead of time and keep the mixture in the fridge for a few hours. Just add vodka and Champagne when you’re ready to serve.
- Leftovers? The base mix (without alcohol) can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Variations & Substitutions
Want to mix things up? Try these fun twists:
- Wimbledon Royale – Add a splash of crème de cassis for a deeper, berry-rich flavor.
- Wimbledon Sunset – Swap lemon juice for orange juice for a citrusy kick.
- Wimbledon Garden – Add elderflower liqueur for a floral touch.
- Non-Alcoholic Version – Replace vodka and Champagne with sparkling water and a splash of lemonade for a refreshing mocktail.
Food Pairings
This cocktail pairs beautifully with:
- Light salads – A crisp salad with vinaigrette mirrors the cocktail’s fresh flavors.
- Finger sandwiches – Cucumber or smoked salmon sandwiches balance the drink’s sweetness.
- Soft cheeses – Brie or Camembert complement the fruity notes perfectly.
I always love serving this cocktail alongside a simple cheese platter—it makes for an effortless yet elegant spread.
Common Questions
Can I use gin instead of vodka?
Absolutely! Gin adds a botanical twist that works beautifully with the basil.
What’s the best Champagne to use?
Any good-quality sparkling wine will do. If you prefer a slightly sweeter drink, try Prosecco instead.
Can I make this in a big batch?
Yes! Just multiply the ingredients and mix everything (except the Champagne) in a pitcher. Add the bubbly right before serving.
How do I make it stronger?
If you want a boozier drink, increase the vodka slightly—but keep the balance in mind.
What’s the best way to garnish it?
A fresh strawberry on the rim or a basil sprig adds a simple yet elegant touch.
This cocktail is one of my go-to drinks for summer gatherings—light, refreshing, and always a crowd-pleaser. Try it out and enjoy a little taste of Wimbledon, no matter where you are!
