In the world of cocktails, few classics exude timeless elegance like the Gin Gimlet. Its simplicity and crisp, refreshing taste have made it a favorite for generations.
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Sipping into Elegance: The Perfect Gin Gimlet Recipe
The Gin Gimlet is a cocktail that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and sour, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a well-rounded and easy-to-sip beverage.
It follows the classic ratio that so many cocktails use: 2 parts spirit, 1 part citrus juice, and 1 part simple syrup. This combinations works so well for so many drinks and the Gimlet is no exception.
The History of the Gin Gimlet
There are two stories about the origin of the Gimlet. Both of them do originate with the Royal Navy.
The Gimlet's origin is intertwined with the Royal Navy's quest to combat scurvy. Lime juice, containing vitamin C, was introduced to the sailors' rations. Lime juice, the essential ingredient, became the backbone of the cocktail. The naming is what is contested. One belief is that the cocktail was named after Sir Thomas D. Gimlette, a Navy surgeon. The second belief is that It may be named after the tool for drilling small holes (alluding to its "piercing" effect on the drinker). Either way the Gimlet became a staple.
Now an original gimlet recipe would have used equal part lime cordial and gin. Lime cordial being lime juice pre-mixed with sugar, the most popular brand being Rose's Lime Juice.
Flash forward to modern time the gimlet has evolved to using fresh squeezed lime juice and simple syrup. Many reasons for this but mostly it tastes better. Most shelf stable cordials also use high fructose corn syrup instead of real sugar along with preservatives.
Equipment Needed
- Cocktail Shaker A reliable cocktail shaker is essential for properly mixing and chilling the ingredients.
- Jigger Use a jigger to measure precise quantities of gin, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Citrus Juicer Fresh lime juice is key to a great Gimlet. A citrus juicer ensures you get the most juice out of your limes.
- Glassware: Gimlet's are served neat (without ice) in a Coup or Martini glass.
Bar Equipment
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Ingredients
- Gin:Opt for a high-quality gin. Traditionally a London Dry gin is typically used for this drink but really any kind will do. I prefer American gins so I like to use that.
- Fresh Limes Freshly squeezed lime juice is a must. Avoid bottled lime juice for the best flavor. You will also want a thin lime wheel for a garnish.
- Simple Syrup: Simple syrup provides the necessary sweetness to balance the tartness of the lime juice. Simple syrup is a 1:1 ratio of sugar to water, heat together over the stove until the sugar is fully dissolved. For more information visit my blog post about Simple Syrup.
- Ice: Ice is crucial for properly chilling your Gimlet.
Instructions
Chill Your Glass Place your coupe or martini glass in the freezer for at least 15 minutes to ensure it's nicely chilled.
Measure Gin and Add It to the Shaker Using your jigger, measure 2 oz of gin and pour it into the cocktail shaker.
Squeeze Fresh Lime Juice Squeeze the juice of one lime (approximately 1 oz) into the shaker. Ensure there are no seeds.
Add Simple Syrup Measure 1 oz of simple syrup and add it to the shaker.
Add Ice and Shake Vigorously Fill the shaker with ice, covering the liquid ingredients. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until well chilled.
Strain Into Your Chilled Glass Strain the cocktail into your chilled coupe or martini glass. If you are up for it you can double strain with a fine mesh strainer Affiliate Link, this helps achieve a silky-smooth texture.
Garnish with a Lime Wheel or Twist For an added touch of class, garnish your Gimlet with a thin lime wheel or a twisted lime peel.
Tips, Tricks and Questions
Neat or on the Rocks?
The classic Gimlet is traditionally served neat, but if you prefer it on the rocks, simply add ice to your glass before straining the cocktail.
Can I Use Vodka Instead of Gin?
You can, but the classic Gimlet is made with gin. The choice is yours.
What's the Difference Between a Gimlet and a Martini?
While both are classic cocktails, the Gimlet features lime juice and simple syrup, while a Martini traditionally contains gin (or vodka) and vermouth.
How Do I Customize My Gimlet with Different Flavors?
Get creative by experimenting with flavored gins, various citrus fruits, or herbal infusions to put your own unique spin on the classic Gimlet.
Gin Gimlet
The Classic Gin Gimlet made with gin, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces gin
- 1 ounce simple syrup
- 1 ounce fresh lime juice
- Garnish: Lime Wheel
Instructions
- Chill your glass in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before serving.
- To a shaker add ice, gin, lime juice, and simple syrup. Shake vigorously for 15 to 20 seconds until very cold.
- Strain the gimlet into the chilled glass. Garnished with a lime wheel before enjoying.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
1Serving Size:
1 drinkAmount Per Serving: Calories: 186Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 1mgCarbohydrates: 16gFiber: 0gSugar: 13gProtein: 0g
Nutritional data is automated and might not be 100% accurate, final nutritional information will depend on ingredients used and any changes made.
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