Recipe: Basil Caipirinha

The weather is hot. It's a holiday weekend. We all need a drink, we need it soon -- and by soon, we mean now. As much as we love mojitos, margaritas, and piña coladas, we're dying to try something new. After an intense brainstorming and tasting session with our bartender friends and fellow lushes, we've concocted a deliciously refreshing cocktail that melds together sweet, savory and tart flavors and will keep your tastebuds delighted and your brain warm and fuzzy. It's a twist on the famous Brazilian drink that we all love imbibing at churrascarias. Mix up a big batch, add ice and bring the party with you wherever the holiday takes you. We promise it will get you instant popularity/cool points.

Basil Caipirinha

1 1/2 ounce cachaça

A handful of freshly torn basil leaves

2 teaspoons fine sugar

1 lime cut into 4 wedges

Sparkling water

Muddle together the cachaca, basil, lime and sugar. Top with sparkling water. Garnish with a lime wedge and a basil leaf. This recipe makes one drink, so multiply accordingly.