The Oasis is a short, zesty Gin cocktail that surprises visually and in taste with Blue Curaçao and soda water. The combination of dry London Dry Gin, sweet-and-sour citrus notes, and the blue colour makes it a real showstopper – perfect for warm days or as an introduction to the world of Gin drinks. Less sweet than a classic Collins, but with more depth than a simple Gin & Tonic.
And here’s what you need for the Oasis
4 cl London Dry Gin
2 cl Blue Curaçao
8 cl soda water
1 slice of lemon (for garnish)
2 fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
The key to success
The trick is in the timing: add the Blue Curaçao to the glass after the Gin so it doesn’t immediately mix with the soda water. This creates a beautiful colour gradient from dark blue at the bottom to light blue at the top. If you prefer it even more intense, you can lightly muddle the Gin with the mint leaves in the glass first – but only briefly, otherwise the drink becomes too bitter. Always add the soda water last to keep the fizz and make the drink nicely spritzy.
Variations
- Oasis Royal — Replace the soda water with 6 cl Champagne or dry Prosecco. The drink becomes more elegant and less sweet, while retaining its blue colour. Garnish: lemon zest instead of a slice.
- Oasis Tropical — Add 2 cl pineapple juice and 1 cl coconut syrup, reduce the soda water to 4 cl. The drink becomes fruitier and creamier, yet still Gin-based. Garnish: pineapple slice and mint.
- Oasis Smoky — Use 3 cl London Dry Gin and 1 cl Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (e.g., smoky style) instead of the full 4 cl Gin. The drink gets a smoky note but remains refreshing. Garnish: lemon zest and a pinch of smoked sea salt on the glass rim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different liqueur instead of Blue Curaçao?
Yes, but the taste changes noticeably. Triple Sec or Cointreau make the drink sweeter and less colourful. For a natural blue colour, you can use butterfly pea tea infusion – it’s flavour-neutral but visually similar.
Why isn’t the drink turning properly blue?
Blue Curaçao loses its colour when over-diluted or mixed with acidic ingredients. Add it to the glass after the Gin and stir briefly. If necessary, use a little more Curaçao or reduce the soda water.
Can I prepare the Oasis without alcohol?
Yes, replace the Gin with 4 cl alcohol-free Gin or simply more soda water. Blue Curaçao usually contains alcohol, but alcohol-free versions are also available. The taste will be milder, but the colour remains.
