The Gimlet is one of those cocktails that proves simple can still be special. With just three main ingredients, it delivers a crisp, citrusy kick that’s both refreshing and elegant. It’s been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the porch-light, zippy, and a breeze to make.
Bourbon Gimlet
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glass: Chilled cocktail or martini glass
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) gin (London dry works great)
– ½ oz (15 ml) fresh lime juice (about half a lime)
– ½ oz (15 ml) simple syrup (see tip below)
– Lime wheel or wedge, for garnish
Equipment
– Cocktail shaker
– Strainer
– Jigger or measuring spoons
– Citrus juicer or reamer (optional but helpful)
Method
- Chill your glass. Pop your cocktail or martini glass in the freezer while you make the drink. A cold glass keeps everything crisp and refreshing.
- Fill your shaker with ice. You want it about halfway full.
- Pour in the gin, lime juice, and simple syrup. Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor-bottled just doesn’t have the same zing.
- Shake it like you mean it. About 15 seconds should do the trick. You’ll know it’s ready when the shaker feels frosty on the outside.
- Strain into your chilled glass. No need for fancy moves-just a smooth pour.
- Garnish with a lime wheel. It adds a little extra aroma and looks great, too.
Tips & Tricks
– Simple syrup: To make your own, just mix equal parts sugar and hot water until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool before using. It keeps in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
– Balance is key: If your drink tastes too tart, add a bit more syrup. Too sweet? Add a splash more lime.
– Chill everything: Cold ingredients and glassware make a big difference in taste and texture.
– Gin matters: I’ve made this drink countless times-try a few gin brands to see which one you like best. London dry is classic, but a citrus-forward gin can add something special.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the gin, lime juice, and syrup ahead of time and store it in the fridge (without ice). When you’re ready to serve, just shake it with ice and strain. Great for parties or prepping a few drinks in advance.
Storage
Keep any leftover simple syrup in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to two weeks. Fresh lime juice is best used the same day but can be stored in the fridge for 1-2 days.
Serving Suggestions
A Gimlet is a fantastic aperitif. Try pairing it with:
– Spicy appetizers: Think jalapeño poppers or spiced nuts. The lime cuts through the heat.
– Fresh seafood: Shrimp cocktail, oysters, or ceviche all shine with a Gimlet nearby.
– Grilled chicken: Especially with herb marinades-the drink’s citrus balances the savory char.
Variations to Try
French Gimlet
– 2 oz (60 ml) gin
– ½ oz (15 ml) St-Germain elderflower liqueur
– ½ oz (15 ml) fresh lime juice
Shake and strain as usual. The elderflower adds a floral twist.
Southside
– 2 oz (60 ml) gin
– ½ oz (15 ml) lime juice
– ½ oz (15 ml) simple syrup
– 4-5 fresh mint leaves
Muddle the mint with syrup and lime, then shake with gin and ice. Strain and enjoy-a refreshing, mojito-like take.
Cucumber Gimlet
– 2 oz (60 ml) gin
– ½ oz (15 ml) lime juice
– ½ oz (15 ml) simple syrup
– 3 slices cucumber
Muddle cucumber with lime and syrup, shake with gin and ice, strain. Crisp and garden-fresh.
Non-Alcoholic Version
– 2 oz (60 ml) soda water
– ½ oz (15 ml) lime juice
– ½ oz (15 ml) simple syrup
Shake lime and syrup with ice, top with soda water in a chilled glass. Garnish with lime. Still zesty, no booze needed.
Substitutions
– Vodka: Swap for gin if you prefer a cleaner, less botanical taste.
– Sweetener: Use honey syrup or agave for a richer flavor.
– Citrus: Try lemon or even grapefruit juice for a twist.
Common Pitfalls
– Using bottled lime juice: It just doesn’t have the same brightness. Always go fresh.
– Over-shaking: You want it cold, not watery. 10-15 seconds is perfect.
– Too much syrup: It can overpower the lime. Start with ½ oz, then adjust to taste.
Quick Q&A
Can I make a batch for a party?
Yes! Just multiply the ingredients, mix everything (except ice) in a pitcher, and chill. Shake individual servings with ice before pouring.
Do I have to shake it?
Shaking chills and dilutes the drink just right. Stirring is okay, but the texture won’t be quite the same.
What’s the best gin to use?
A classic London dry is a solid choice. Try different ones to find your favorite.
Can I make it less sweet?
Absolutely-cut the simple syrup down to ¼ oz or swap in a less-sweet cordial.
Final Sip
The Gimlet is a timeless cocktail-quick to make, hard to mess up, and always refreshing. Whether you’re sipping it solo after a long day or mixing up a round for friends, it never disappoints. Try a few variations, experiment with the sweetness, and make it your own.
It’s a drink that’s earned its place in my regular rotation-and once you try it, it might just earn a spot in yours too.
