Bennett Cocktail Recipe

The Bennett Cocktail is a riff on the classic Gimlet, which traditionally combines gin and lime juice. The Bennett ups the ante by adding a dash of bitters and a touch of sweetness with simple syrup. It's believed to have originated in the mid-20th century, and it's a hit among those who appreciate a tart, refreshing drink with a hint of complexity from the bitters.

• Origins
  • The exact origins are a bit murky, but it's a variation of the Gimlet.
• Popularity
  • It's particularly popular in craft cocktail circles.
• Notable Features
  • The addition of bitters differentiates it from its Gimlet cousin.

The Bennett Cocktail is a harmonious blend of sour and sweet, with the botanical notes of gin shining through. The lime juice provides a zesty tang, while the simple syrup softens the edges, and the bitters bring a subtle spiced depth to the drink.

• The Bennett Cocktail is sometimes garnished with a lime wheel or zest to enhance its citrus aroma.
• It's a versatile cocktail that can be enjoyed before dinner as an aperitif or as a refreshing summertime drink.
• The cocktail's simplicity makes it a favorite for home bartenders to experiment with.

1. Fill a shaker with ice.
2. Add the gin, lime juice, simple syrup, and bitters.
3. Shake vigorously until well-chilled.
4. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
5. Optionally garnish with a lime wheel or zest.

• Always use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
• If you prefer a less sweet drink, you can reduce the simple syrup to a bar spoon (about 1/8 oz).
• Chill your cocktail glass in the freezer for at least 30 minutes before serving for an extra-cold drink.

Bennett Cocktail Pairings

Seafood: The crispness of the gin and the citrus zing from the lime juice make this cocktail a perfect match for seafood dishes like ceviche or grilled shrimp.

Spicy Foods: The refreshing nature of the Bennett Cocktail helps to counterbalance the heat from spicy foods such as Thai or Indian curries.

Cheese Plates: The botanicals of the gin complement soft cheeses like goat cheese, while the acidity can cut through richer cheeses.

• Gin: You can use a light vodka if gin isn't your thing, though it will change the flavor profile significantly.
• Simple Syrup: Agave syrup or honey syrup can be used for a different kind of sweetness.
• Aromatic Bitters: Orange bitters can be a nice twist if you're out of aromatic bitters.

Cucumber Bennett Twist

Ingredients: 2 oz Gin (preferably cucumber-infused), 1 oz Lime juice, 0.5 oz Simple syrup, 1 dash Aromatic bitters, Fresh cucumber slices.

Recipe: Muddle a few fresh cucumber slices in the shaker before adding the rest of the ingredients. Shake and strain into a glass. This adds a cool, garden-fresh dimension to the cocktail.

Spicy Bennett Twist

Ingredients: 2 oz Gin, 1 oz Lime juice, 0.5 oz Simple syrup, 1 dash Aromatic bitters, A slice of jalapeño.

Recipe: Add a slice of jalapeño to the shaker and muddle it to release its heat. Proceed with the standard recipe. The jalapeño will introduce a spicy kick that pairs well with the botanicals in gin.

Elderflower Bennett Twist

Ingredients: 2 oz Gin, 1 oz Lime juice, 0.5 oz Elderflower syrup, 1 dash Aromatic bitters.

Recipe: Use elderflower syrup instead of simple syrup for a floral twist. Shake all ingredients and strain into a glass. Elderflower syrup adds a sweet, lychee-like flavor, elevating the aromatic profile.