Bourbon Gimlet Cocktail Recipe
Bourbon Gimlet Nutrition Facts
Calories:150
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:7g
Alcohol by volume:30%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: August 23, 2024
Contents
History
The Gimlet has its roots in the age of sail, where British sailors mixed gin with lime to prevent scurvy. The Bourbon Gimlet is a twist on the classic, substituting bourbon for gin, and has gained popularity for its balance of sweet and sour flavors.
- Origins: A classic gimlet is traditionally made with gin.
- Evolution: The bourbon variant emerged as a popular alternative for those who prefer the sweeter, oak-infused flavors of American whiskey.
- Popularity: It's a hit among bourbon enthusiasts and cocktail aficionados who appreciate a twist on the traditional.
How Bourbon Gimlet Tastes?
The Bourbon Gimlet offers a harmonious blend of the warm, vanilla and caramel notes of bourbon with the bright, tartness of fresh lime juice. It's a refreshing cocktail with a sweet and sour profile, balanced by the subtle complexity of the bourbon.
Interesting facts about Bourbon Gimlet
- The Gimlet was mentioned in Raymond Chandler's 1953 novel 'The Long Goodbye'.
- The name 'Gimlet' is believed to be named after Surgeon Admiral Sir Thomas Gimlette.
- While gin is the traditional base, bourbon provides a distinctly American twist to this classic cocktail.
Ingredients
- Bourbon: 2 oz(60ml)
- Fresh lime juice: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Simple syrup: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Ice: As needed
- Lime wheel: 1 (for garnish)
Bourbon
The foundation of our cocktail, bourbon brings the warmth and complexity we're after. Opting for 2 oz keeps the drink strong but sippable. Too much? You'll be seeing double. Too little? It's a limeade, not a cocktail! Switch it for rye if you fancy spice over sweet.
Emma Rose
Fresh Lime Juice
This zesty pal adds a punch—the essential acidity balances the sweetness and bourbon punch. Without our 0.5 oz, you're missing the 'Gimlet' in Bourbon Gimlet. The fresh choice is bold and beautiful here, bottled lime juice can't compete.
Alex Green
Simple Syrup
Sweet simplicity! Our 0.5 oz makes the mix marvellous. Skip it, and your pucker-face will scare away friendly faces. Honey syrup could be a suave substitute for a richer note.
Mary Mitkina
Ice
Chills and dilutes, ice is the silent hero. Without it, you have a tepid tipple, and who wants that? Not too much now, or you're sipping on a bourbon-flavored iceberg.
Emma Rose
Lime Wheel
The garnish, the final flourish! It's the look and the subtle scent, adding a touch of elegance and aromatics. Leave it out, and the cocktail feels naked, not quite finished.
Alex Green
Recipe. How to make Bourbon Gimlet Drink
- Fill a shaker with ice.
- Pour in 2 oz of bourbon.
- Add 0.5 oz of fresh lime juice.
- Include 0.5 oz of simple syrup.
- Shake well until chilled.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a lime wheel on the rim.
Pro Tips
- Always use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
- Chill your cocktail glass beforehand to keep your drink colder longer.
- Adjust the simple syrup to your taste; some prefer it less sweet.
Perfect Pairings
Appetizers
- Grilled Shrimp: The smoky flavor complements the bourbon's depth.
- Cheese Board: A selection of sharp cheeses can balance the cocktail's sweetness.
Smoked Almonds: A crunchy pairing that mirrors the cocktail's nutty undertones.
Main Courses
- Barbecue Pork: Bourbon and barbecue are a classic combo. The tangy sauce pairs well with the lime's acidity.
- Roast Chicken: The cocktail's brightness can cut through the richness of the skin.
Desserts
- Dark Chocolate: Enhances the bourbon's complexity with its bitter notes.
- Lemon Tart: Echoes the citrus notes in the gimlet.
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What you could change in Bourbon Gimlet
- Bourbon: If you don't have bourbon, try using a rye whiskey for a spicier kick.
- Simple Syrup: Agave syrup can be a good alternative for a different kind of sweetness.
- Lime Juice: In a pinch, bottled lime juice can work, but fresh is always best.
Explore all drinks starting with B here
And of course - twists🍹
Bourbon Spiced Gimlet
Incorporate a cinnamon stick into the shaker. It brings an autumn vibe and a fiery twist to the drink. The warmth of the cinnamon will dance with the bourbon like a cozy fireside tango.
Herbaceous Bourbon Gimlet
Add a few basil leaves to the shaker before mixing. The basil will infuse an herbal freshness, transforming your cocktail into a botanical garden in a glass. Perfect for when you want to feel gourmet.
Bourbon Gimlet with a Splash of Soda
After straining into your glass, top it off with a splash of club soda. This elevates the drink to a bubbly dimension, making it lighter, more refreshing, and adding a fanciful fizz for those who like a bit of theater in their glass.
In case you forgot basics how to make Bourbon Gimlet
The basic composition of simple syrup is relatively straightforward – a 1:1 ratio of sugar and water. This mixture is heated until the sugar dissolves, resulting in a clear, sweet syrup.
Learn everything about simple syrupAdd your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.
Learn everything on how to shakePlace your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
Learn everything on how to strainGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
Learn everything on garnishingFind the cocktail you'd love!
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Frequently Asked Questions on Bourbon Gimlet
What type of glass is best for serving a Bourbon Gimlet?
A Bourbon Gimlet is typically served in a chilled cocktail or old-fashioned glass.
Can I make a Bourbon Gimlet without a cocktail shaker?
Yes, you can stir the ingredients with ice and then strain it into your glass if you don't have a shaker.
Is the Bourbon Gimlet a strong cocktail?
The strength can vary based on the proof of the bourbon used, but generally it's considered a moderately strong cocktail.
How can I make a non-alcoholic version of a Bourbon Gimlet?
Use a non-alcoholic spirit alternative that mimics the flavor of bourbon, or simply mix lime juice and simple syrup with sparkling water for a mocktail version.
Does the type of bourbon I use matter?
Yes, different bourbons can vary in sweetness and intensity of flavor, affecting the final taste of the cocktail.
How can I ensure my Gimlet is well balanced?
Pay careful attention to the ratio of bourbon, lime juice, and simple syrup, and adjust according to your taste preference.
What's the best way to garnish a Bourbon Gimlet?
Typically, a Bourbon Gimlet is garnished with a lime wheel or a twist of lime peel for an elegant presentation.
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