A martini is never going to be a tame drink – there’s just too much power in the barely diluted alcohol – but this lovely version is aromatic and elegant. It’s a huge favourite at our kind-of Jewish deli, Mishkin’s, in Covent Garden, London.

Ready

• 5 basil leaves
• 3 slices cucumber
• 60ml Hendrick’s gin
• 5ml sugar syrup

Set

• Boston glass - cocktail shaker
• Muddler
• Cocktail strainer
• Martini glass (chilled)

Go

1. Muddle basil leaves in a Boston cocktail glass.
2. Add cucumber and muddle lightly.
3. Add gin, sugar syrup and some ice.
4. Stir for 30 seconds to properly chill.
5. Double strain, to remove all stray bits, into martini glass.
6. Garnish with two basil leaves.