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Gimlet Cocktail
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5 from 1 vote

Gimlet Cocktail Recipe

The classic Gimlet is a wonderfully simple and refreshing cocktail that consists of gin, fresh lime juice, and sugar. Categorized as a gin sour, it shares a category with other beloved and time-tested drinks like the Daiquiri, a rum sour.
The exact origin of the Gimlet remains uncertain, but it is believed to have been invented by British sailors in the late 18th century out of necessity. The sailors needed a way to prevent scurvy, a disease caused by a lack of vitamin C, so they mixed lime juice with liquor. It didn't take long for them to realize that this concoction was not only beneficial but also incredibly delicious. Thus, while scurvy is now a thing of the past, the Gimlet continues to thrive.
Over time, the Gimlet found its way into cocktail books, including Harry Craddock's iconic "The Savoy Cocktail Book" from 1930, featuring various recipes, ingredients, and proportions. While fresh lime juice is the preferred choice today, for many years, the Gimlet was predominantly made with Rose's lime cordial, a bottled mixture of lime juice and sugar that debuted in the 1860s. If you opt for Rose's in your drink, you can omit the simple syrup since the cordial is already sweetened. Aim for one ounce of Rose's to achieve the desired balance.
It's worth noting that the Gimlet can also be made with vodka, a practice that gained popularity in the 1980s and 1990s. However, as gin reclaimed its popularity among drinkers, it regained its rightful place in the Gimlet. Gin's natural affinity for lime, along with its dry and botanical nature, adds structure to the cocktail while keeping the sweetness in check. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors that is both refreshing and satisfying.
Prep Time3 minutes
Total Time3 minutes
Course: Beverage, Cocktail, Drinks
Cuisine: Beverage, Cocktail, Drinks
Keyword: Beverage, Cocktail, Drink
Servings: 1 serving
Calories: 131kcal

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Pour the Gin and lime juice into a mixing glass half-filled with ice cubes. Stir well, Strain into a cocktail glass and garnish.

Nutrition

Calories: 131kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 0.4g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.01g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.03g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.01g | Sodium: 0.02mg | Potassium: 51mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin C: 20.6mg