Gimlet Cocktail Recipe
Gimlet Nutrition Facts
Calories:171
Fat:0g
Protein:0.1g
Carbohydrates:7.2g
Alcohol:14%
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 cocktail is a classic cocktail with a rich history dating back to the 19th century. It was originally created by British sailors as a way to prevent scurvy, a disease caused by a lack of vitamin C. The combination of gin and lime juice provided the necessary nutrients to keep the sailors healthy during long voyages at sea.
- The name 'Gimlet' is believed to have been derived from the tool used to pierce the lime juice containers on the ships.
- The Gimlet gained popularity in the 20th century and became a staple in cocktail bars around the world.
- It is a favorite among gin lovers and those who appreciate a simple, yet refreshing cocktail.
How Gimlet Tastes?
The Gimlet cocktail has a bright, tangy, and slightly sweet taste. The combination of gin and lime juice creates a refreshing and crisp flavor, while the simple syrup adds a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity. The overall taste is clean, sharp, and invigorating.
Interesting facts about Gimlet
- The Gimlet was mentioned in Raymond Chandler's 1953 novel 'The Long Goodbye', where the protagonist, Philip Marlowe, orders the cocktail.
- The original recipe called for Rose's Lime Juice, a sweetened, preserved lime juice that was popular among sailors.
- Some variations of the Gimlet replace the gin with vodka, creating a Vodka Gimlet.
Ingredients
- Gin: 2 oz(60ml)
- Lime juice: 0.75 oz(23ml)
- Simple syrup: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Ice: as needed
- Lime wheel: 1
A few good options for Gimlet are:
- Brockmans
- Silent Pool Gin
- Hendrick's Gin
Gin
Gin (2 oz): The soul of a Gimlet. Its botanicals provide a complex base for the drink. Too little and you'll miss its character; too much and it'll overpower the delicate balance. Want a twist? Swap for vodka for a smoother ride.
Alex Green
Lime Juice
Lime Juice (0.75 oz): The zing to your zest! It gives the cocktail that essential tangy kick. Less juice, and you risk a flat profile; more, and you’re puckering more than a duck’s beak. Feeling fancy? Freshly squeeze for a brighter burst.
Mary Mitkina
Simple Syrup
Simple Syrup (0.5 oz): Your sweet harmony in a world of sharp flavors, balancing out the acidity. If you skip it, prepare for a tart takeover. Sweet tooth? Add a tad more but don't let it become a syrup showdown. No syrup? Try honey for a bee's knees spin.
Emma Rose
Ice
Ice: Your cocktail's cool comrade, chilling the mix without watering down the fun—assuming you serve it swiftly. No ice would be a spirit-warming misstep. Crushed or cubed? Your texture, your choice. Just be quick, time’s melting!
Alex Green
Lime Wheel
Lime Wheel (1): The garnish that garners the 'oohs' and 'aahs.' This citrus crown makes each sip a royal encounter. No lime wheel equals a naked glassy affair. Feeling extra? Muddle in basil for a herbal hug in your highball.
Mary Mitkina
Recipe. How to make Gimlet Drink
- Prepare the ingredients: Measure out the gin, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Fill a shaker with ice: Add enough ice to fill the shaker halfway.
- Combine the ingredients: Pour the gin, lime juice, and simple syrup into the shaker.
- Shake the cocktail: Shake the mixture vigorously for 15-20 seconds to chill and dilute the cocktail.
- Strain and serve: Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
- Garnish: Place a lime wheel on the rim of the glass or float it on top of the cocktail.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh lime juice: The quality of your lime juice can make a big difference in the taste of your Gimlet. Freshly squeezed lime juice is always the best choice.
- Chill your glass: A chilled glass will keep your cocktail colder for longer, enhancing the refreshing qualities of the Gimlet.
- Shake well: Shaking the cocktail well not only chills it, but also helps to properly mix the ingredients.
Perfect Pairings
Seafood
A classic Gimlet cuts through the richness of seafood beautifully, making dishes like grilled shrimp, oysters, or ceviche a perfect companion.
Spicy Cuisine
The refreshing citrus notes of a Gimlet help to soothe the heat from spicy foods such as Thai curries or spicy chicken wings.
Light Salads
The clean, fresh flavors coincide nicely with light summer salads, particularly those dressed with vinaigrette.
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What you could change in Gimlet
- Vodka: If you're not a fan of gin, you can substitute it with vodka to make a Vodka Gimlet.
- Rose's Lime Juice: The original recipe for the Gimlet called for Rose's Lime Juice. If you want to try the classic version of this cocktail, you can substitute the fresh lime juice and simple syrup with Rose's Lime Juice.
Explore all drinks starting with G here
And of course - twists🍹
Cucumber Gimlet
Replace simple syrup with muddled cucumber and a hint of mint. The result? A cool, herbalicious twist that’s like a spa day in a glass.
*30ml Gin *20ml Fresh Lime Juice *15ml Sugar Syrup *4-5 Fresh Mint Leaves *4 Slices Cucumber Muddle cucumber and mint. Add the other ingredients and shake with ice. Fine strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a cucumber ribbon.
Rosemary Gimlet
Add a rosemary simple syrup and a splash of tonic water for a piney aroma that leads to forest frolics with each sip.
*45ml Gin *15ml Fresh Lime Juice *15ml Rosemary Syrup *Splash of Tonic Water *Rosemary Sprig for Garnish Create rosemary syrup by simmering sugar, water, and fresh rosemary. Cool and use in the cocktail. Shake ingredients (except tonic) with ice and top with tonic. Serve in a highball with a sprig of rosemary.
Spiced Gimlet
Spike your Gimlet with a bit of ginger and cardamom for a warm, spicy escapade that leaves a tingle on your tongue.
*45ml Gin *15ml Fresh Lime Juice *15ml Spiced Simple Syrup (infuse syrup with ginger and cardamom) Shake ingredients with ice. Strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a lime wheel studded with cardamom pods.
In case you forgot basics how to make 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 Gimlet
Why is it called a 'Gimlet'?
The name 'Gimlet' is thought to have been derived from the tool used to bore into barrels of spirits on naval ships.
What is the best type of gin to use in a Gimlet?
A good quality gin with robust flavors works best in a Gimlet. London Dry Gin is often recommended.
Can I use bottled lime juice in my Gimlet?
It is generally recommended to use fresh lime juice in a Gimlet for the best flavor, however bottled lime juice can be used if fresh isn't available.
What type of glass is best to serve a Gimlet in?
Traditionally, Gimlets are served in a chilled coupe or martini glass. The shape of the glass adds to the elegance of the cocktail.
What is the alcohol content of a Gimlet?
A typical Gimlet contains 2 ounces of gin, which is roughly 40% alcohol by volume. The final alcohol content of the cocktail will depend on the exact proportions and may vary slightly.
Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the Gimlet?
Absolutely, you can create a non-alcoholic version by substituting the gin with non-alcoholic gin or tonic water and adjusting the amount of lime juice and simple syrup accordingly.
Are there any popular variations of the Gimlet?
Yes, one popular variation is the Vodka Gimlet, which substitutes gin for vodka. Some also enjoy experimenting with different citrus juices, like grapefruit or lemon, for a twist on the classic recipe.
How do I prevent my Gimlet from becoming diluted?
Shaking the cocktail with large ice cubes and serving in a chilled glass can help it stay colder longer, preventing rapid dilution.
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