Gimlet
The Gimlet is a study in elegant simplicity. A classic and invigorating cocktail, it is a sharp, clean, and bracingly tart drink, consisting of little more than gin and lime. This modern recipe uses fresh ingredients for the brightest possible flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 oz London Dry Gin
- ¾ oz Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice
- ¾ oz Simple Syrup (1:1 ratio)
- Garnish: Lime Wheel
Instructions
- Chill Your Glass: A Gimlet is best served ice-cold in a chilled coupe or martini glass. Place your glass in the freezer for a few minutes before you start.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the gin, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker.
- Shake with Ice: Fill the shaker to the top with ice, seal it, and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds. The shaker should become uncomfortably cold to the touch.
- Strain: Double-strain the mixture from the shaker into your chilled coupe glass. This removes any small ice shards and ensures a perfectly smooth drink.
- Garnish: Garnish with a thin lime wheel floated on the surface or a fresh lime twist.
Pro Tips for Perfection
Fresh Juice vs. Cordial: The original Gimlet was made with Rose's Lime Cordial, a sweetened, preserved lime juice. While that version is historically accurate, the modern palate overwhelmingly prefers the bright, sharp flavor of freshly squeezed lime juice balanced with simple syrup. This recipe reflects that contemporary preference for a fresher, less artificial taste.
Gin or Vodka?: While the classic Gimlet is made with gin (whose botanicals pair beautifully with lime), a Vodka Gimlet is an equally popular and delicious variation. Simply substitute the gin for a high-quality vodka for a cleaner, more neutral spirit base that lets the lime shine through.