A classic gimlet cocktail with gin, simple syrup, and fresh lime juice. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart with a hint of botanical flavor.
The gimlet dates back to the 1800s, when officers of the British Royal Navy drank gin and lime juice to prevent scurvy. Some say the drink is named after Admiral Sir Thomas Gimlette. Others think it's named after the tool for drilling small holes on the ships. Whatever the case, the gimlet is now regarded as a classic gin cocktail – and it's so easy to make at home!
Why you'll love this gimlet recipe:
- It's a refreshing drink: If you're looking for a sweet, fresh, and smooth cocktail, the gimlet is for you!
- Made with simple ingredients: This popular 3-ingredient cocktail calls for items you probably already have stocked in your home bar.
- Great for any occasion: Serve gimlets during happy hour, as an after-dinner drink, or at parties.
Ingredients
- Gin: The best gin for a gimlet is your favorite type! The quality of the gin you use is key. The better the gin, the better your drink. Different gins will slightly change the overall flavor of your gimlet. I suggest a good London dry gin such as Beefeater or Bombay Sapphire. Hendricks and Tanqueray are great choices too.
- Sweetener: Store-bought or homemade simple syrup adds a smooth sweetness to this cocktail. To make your own simple syrup, cook down equal parts granulated sugar and water until the mixture has thickened. Let the simple syrup cool before using then store covered in the fridge for 3-4 weeks.
- Lime juice: There is some debate whether a real gimlet uses fresh lime or Rose’s lime cordial. Freshly squeezed lime juice is thought to be what the original drink called for, however you can use the same amount of lime cordial if you prefer.
Tools
A gimlet is shaken and strained into a chilled cocktail glass. This bar tool set comes complete with a stainless steel shaker, jigger, and bar spoon.
How to make a gimlet
The full directions for this traditional gimlet are in the printable recipe card below.
- Add gin, simple syrup, and lime juice to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
- Shake vigorously then strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with a lime slice before serving.
Tips for making the best gin gimlet
Try these gimlet variations to make your perfect gimlet at home!
- Vodka gimlet: Substitute your favorite vodka in place of gin.
- Lemon gimlet: Use fresh lemon juice instead of lime.
- Mellow it out: Add a splash of soda water, club soda, or tonic water.
- Sweeten it up: Add up to a half ounce extra of simple syrup.
- Get it ice cold: Shake the cocktail for at least 30 seconds to get the ingredients very well-chilled.
- Add some herbs: Garnish your gimlet with fresh rosemary, basil, or mint.
Related recipes
Want more delicious cocktail recipes? Here are a few of my favorites:
- French Gimlet: A riff on this classic gimlet! Add a sweet, floral twist using elderflower liqueur in place of simple syrup.
- Classic Manhattan: This classic cocktail is an iconic drink that's easy to make at home with 3 ingredients.
- Champagne Cocktail: This sophisticated cocktail calls for a mix of bubbly sparkling wine, sugar, and angostura bitters. It's festive and fun!
- Negroni: This bitter spirit-forward drink combines gin, campari, and sweet vermouth for a unique aperitivo.
- Aperol Spritz: This trendy cocktail is colorful and refreshing drink made with just a few ingredients.
- Aviation Cocktail: Another classic cocktail that’s perfectly sweet and tart. One of my personal favorites!
- Lemon Drop Martini: Make this lemony, sweet and sour cocktail for happy hour! With only 4 ingredients, it’ll become a favorite in no time.
I hope you enjoy this light, citrusy gimlet as much as we do. Cheers!
Gin Gimlet
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 ounces gin
- 1 ounce simple syrup
- ½ ounce fresh lime juice
- Lime wheel for garnish
Instructions
- Add gin, simple syrup, and lime juice to a cocktail shaker filled will ice.
- Shake vigorously until well-chilled, at least 30 seconds. Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with a lime wheel before serving.
Nutrition
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