A Rickey is one of those cocktails that never goes out of style—crisp, bubbly, and just the right amount of tart. It’s the ultimate thirst-quencher, perfect for warm afternoons or when you want something light yet flavorful. I’ve made this drink countless times, and I love how easy it is to tweak depending on my mood. Let’s get into how to make the perfect Rickey at home!
Whiskey Rickey
What’s a Rickey?
A Rickey is a simple, refreshing cocktail made with just three key ingredients: spirit, fresh lime juice, and club soda. No sugar, no syrups—just pure, bright flavors. It started with bourbon in the late 1800s but became even more popular with gin. The drink is light, effervescent, and wonderfully tart, making it a great choice for those who enjoy citrusy, no-fuss cocktails.
I personally love sipping on a Rickey during the summer—it’s crisp, cooling, and never too heavy.
What You’ll Need
Servings: 1 drink
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 oz (60ml) gin or bourbon
- ½ oz (15ml) fresh lime juice
- Club soda, to top
- Ice, as needed
- Lime wedge, for garnish
Equipment
- Highball glass (or a Collins glass)
- Bar spoon (or a regular spoon for stirring)
How to Make a Classic Rickey
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Pour in 2 oz (60ml) of gin or bourbon.
- Squeeze in ½ oz (15ml) of fresh lime juice, then drop the squeezed lime shell into the glass for extra flavor.
- Top with club soda and stir gently to mix.
- Garnish with a lime wedge and serve immediately.
Tip: Always use fresh lime juice! Bottled juice won’t give you the same brightness and zing.
Make It Your Own
A Rickey is incredibly easy to customize! Here are a few fun variations:
- Citrus swap: Try lemon or grapefruit juice instead of lime for a different twist.
- Spirit options: Vodka works well if you prefer a smoother taste.
- A touch of sweetness: Add a splash of simple syrup or agave if you like a hint of sweetness.
One of my favorite tweaks? A Gin Basil Rickey—just muddle a few fresh basil leaves with the lime juice before adding the rest of the ingredients. It gives the drink a lovely herbal note!
Food Pairings
The bright, zesty nature of a Rickey makes it a great match for a variety of dishes:
- Grilled Chicken: The cocktail’s acidity balances smoky, charred flavors beautifully.
- Seafood: Light and refreshing, a Rickey pairs well with oysters, shrimp, or sushi.
- Spicy Foods: The crispness of the drink helps cool down heat from dishes like tacos or spicy Thai food.
Rickey Variations to Try
Cherry Bourbon Rickey
- Ingredients: Bourbon, cherry liqueur, lime juice, club soda
- Method: Add a splash of cherry liqueur to the classic recipe for a fruity twist.
Spicy Cucumber Rickey
- Ingredients: Gin, cucumber slices, jalapeño, lime juice, club soda
- Method: Muddle cucumber and jalapeño with lime juice before adding gin and soda.
Non-Alcoholic Virgin Rickey
- Ingredients: Extra lime juice, club soda
- Method: Skip the alcohol and add a bit more lime for a refreshingly tart mocktail.
Helpful Tips
- Chill your glass before making the drink to keep it extra cold.
- Use good quality club soda—cheap ones can taste flat and ruin the drink’s crispness.
- For parties: Mix everything except the soda ahead of time. When ready to serve, pour over ice and top with soda for freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh is always best, but if you’re in a pinch, bottled lime juice will work—just know the flavor won’t be quite as bright.
What’s the best bourbon for a Bourbon Rickey?
A smooth, aged bourbon works best. Look for something with caramel or vanilla notes to balance the tart lime.
How do I make my Rickey even more refreshing?
Try adding fresh mint or serving it over crushed ice for an extra cooling effect.
Light, bubbly, and endlessly customizable—the Rickey is a cocktail that never disappoints. Whether you’re sticking with the classic or playing around with flavors, it’s an easy drink that always hits the spot. Enjoy! 🍹
