Refresh your cocktail repertoire with the tart and vibrant Gimlet cocktail. This classic sipper combines bright citrus from lime juice with the subtle botanicals of gin for a perfectly balanced drink.
Looking for the perfect classic gimlet cocktail?
Step into a world where sophistication meets citrusy charm, where timeless elegance intertwines with zesty refreshment. Welcome to the realm of the Gimlet Cocktail, where every sip is an invitation to indulge in a taste of classic cocktail culture with a modern twist.
If you’re a fan of gin cocktail recipes, you’ll love the Gimlet Cocktail. Made with fresh ingredients, this traditional Gimlet cocktail is a classic for a reason – it’s slightly sweet, a little tangy, and perfectly piney.
Like a limoncello gin cocktail or a smoked gin cocktail, this gimlet recipe uses citrus notes blended with the botanicals of the gin and a hint of sweetness from the simple syrup. It’s a refreshing drink perfect for cooling off on a hot day.
Watch 🎥 How to Make a Gimlet
What Is a Gimlet Cocktail?
The history of the gimlet cocktail is quite fascinating! It’s said to have originated in the British Royal Navy in the 19th century. British sailors were often given lime rations to prevent scurvy, a vitamin C deficiency, during long voyages. However, to make the lime juice more palatable, sailors started mixing it with gin, creating what they called a “gin sour.” Eventually, a British naval surgeon named Rear-Admiral Sir Thomas Desmond Gimlette supposedly added a bit of sugar to the mix, creating the precursor to the modern gin gimlet cocktail.
The name “gimlet” is believed to have come from Gimlette’s surname, although some stories suggest it may have been named after the tool used to bore holes in barrels of spirits. Regardless, the gimlet gained popularity not only among sailors but also among civilians, especially in England and America.
Over time, the recipe evolved, with some variations using vodka instead of gin or incorporating flavored cordials like Rose’s Lime Cordial. Despite these variations, the gimlet has remained a classic cocktail with a rich history rooted in the British Navy’s seafaring traditions. Today, it continues to be enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts around the world, appreciated for its perfect balance of tartness, sweetness, and botanical flavors.
What you’ll love about this recipe:
What You Need to Make a Gimlet Cocktail
How to Make a Gimlet Cocktail
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add all the ingredients for the cocktail to the shaker.
- Shake until chilled.
- Strain the cocktail into a coupe glass and serve with a dehydrated lime slice.
Expert Recipe Tips
- Not a fan of gin? Make a vodka gimlet cocktail.
- Stir or Shake: Decide whether you prefer your gimlet stirred or shaken. Stirring gently mixes the ingredients while maintaining a smooth texture, while shaking adds aeration and creates a frothy texture. Experiment to find which method you prefer.
- Strain Carefully: If you choose to shake your gimlet, be sure to double strain it to remove any ice chips or pulp from the lime juice. This ensures a smooth, velvety texture in your finished cocktail.
- Experiment with Variations: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of gin or vodka, flavored syrups, or citrus juices to create unique variations of the gimlet. Try a basil gimlet with muddled fresh basil or a rose gimlet with rose-infused syrup for a floral twist.
- Chill Your Glassware: Chill your cocktail glass in the freezer before serving to keep your gimlet cold and refreshing. A chilled glass also helps to maintain the cocktail’s temperature and prevents it from diluting too quickly.
- Fresh Lime Juice: Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor. Avoid bottled lime juice, as it lacks the fresh, vibrant taste of freshly squeezed citrus.
How to serve this cocktail
To serve a gimlet cocktail, strain it into a chilled martini glass, coupe glass, or rocks glass and garnish with a lime twist or wedge for a refreshing finishing touch.
More Cocktail Recipes
Sip into sophistication with a gimlet cocktail – where timeless elegance meets zesty refreshment in every perfectly crafted pour. If you try this recipe, please rate the recipe card and leave a comment down below to help out the next reader!
Gimlet Cocktail Recipe 🍸
Equipment
- cocktail shaker
- Strainer
- Coupe Glass
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 1/2 oz lime juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- Dehydrated lime wheel for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add all the ingredients for the cocktail to the shaker.
- Shake until chilled.
- Strain the cocktail into a coupe glass and serve with a dehydrated lime slice.