A Whiskey Gimlet is the perfect balance of bold whiskey and bright, zesty lime—simple, refreshing, and effortlessly classy. Whether you’re unwinding after a long day or mixing up drinks for friends, this cocktail is always a hit. I’ve made this countless times, and trust me, once you get the balance just right, you’ll keep coming back to it.
Whiskey Gimlet
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) whiskey – A smooth, well-balanced whiskey works best
- 1 oz (30ml) fresh lime juice – Freshly squeezed for the best flavor
- 0.5 oz (15ml) simple syrup – Adjust to taste if you prefer it less sweet
- Ice – Enough to fill your shaker
- Lime wheel – For garnish
Glass: A coupe glass is the classic choice, but an old-fashioned glass works too if you prefer it over ice.
How to Make a Whiskey Gimlet
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in whiskey, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds—this chills and blends everything perfectly.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with a lime wheel, serve immediately, and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Whiskey Gimlet
- Use fresh lime juice. Bottled juice just doesn’t have the same brightness.
- Shake it well. A properly shaken cocktail is icy-cold and well-mixed.
- Adjust the sweetness. If you like it more tart, reduce the simple syrup a bit.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- You can pre-mix the whiskey, lime juice, and simple syrup ahead of time and keep it chilled for a few hours.
- Shake with ice just before serving for the freshest taste.
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
- Whiskey: Try bourbon for a slightly sweeter, richer flavor.
- Simple Syrup: Swap it for honey or agave for a more natural sweetness.
- Lime Juice: Lemon juice works too, but it’ll have a slightly different citrus kick.
Fun Variations to Try
Maple Whiskey Gimlet
- Swap the simple syrup for maple syrup to add a deep, earthy sweetness.
Spiced Whiskey Gimlet
- Infuse the simple syrup with cinnamon and cloves for a warm, spiced twist.
Ginger Whiskey Gimlet
- Use ginger syrup instead of simple syrup for a bold, spicy kick.
Perfect Food Pairings
A Whiskey Gimlet pairs well with:
- Grilled shrimp – The smoky char works beautifully with the citrusy freshness.
- Spicy tacos – The bright lime cuts through rich, spicy flavors.
- Aged cheeses – Sharp cheeses balance the bold whiskey notes.
I love making this on warm summer nights—it’s crisp, refreshing, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh is always better, but bottled works in a pinch.
What’s the best whiskey for this?
A smooth, high-quality whiskey or bourbon works best.
Can I make it in advance?
Yes, mix everything except the ice ahead of time, then shake and serve fresh.
How do I make it less sweet?
Reduce the simple syrup or swap it for a natural sweetener like honey.
Can I use flavored whiskey?
Absolutely! A honey or cinnamon whiskey can add an interesting twist.
Now that you’ve got the basics down, have fun experimenting with your own personal spin on this classic. Cheers!
