Gimlet (cocktail)

A cocktail made with gin and lime juice

A classic gimlet cocktail served in a coupe glass.

The gimlet is a classic cocktail traditionally made with gin and lime juice. It is known for its refreshing and tangy flavor, making it a popular choice among cocktail enthusiasts.

History

The origin of the gimlet is somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have been created in the late 19th century. The cocktail gained popularity among British naval officers, who used lime juice to prevent scurvy. The addition of gin made the lime juice more palatable, leading to the creation of the gimlet.

Ingredients

The traditional gimlet is made with the following ingredients:

• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz lime juice
• 0.5 oz simple syrup (optional, depending on taste)

Preparation

To prepare a gimlet, follow these steps:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. 2. Add the gin, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker. 3. Shake well until the mixture is chilled. 4. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass. 5. Garnish with a lime wheel or wedge, if desired.

Variations

While the classic gimlet is made with gin, there are several variations of the cocktail:

• Vodka Gimlet: Substitute vodka for gin to create a vodka gimlet.
• Rose's Lime Juice: Some recipes call for Rose's Lime Juice instead of fresh lime juice, which adds a sweeter flavor.
• Herbal Gimlet: Add a splash of herbal liqueur or muddle fresh herbs like mint or basil for an aromatic twist.

Cultural References

The gimlet has been mentioned in various works of literature and film, often associated with sophistication and elegance. It is famously referenced in Raymond Chandler's novel "The Long Goodbye," where the protagonist, Philip Marlowe, describes it as "half gin and half Rose's Lime Juice and nothing else."

Related pages

• Gin
• Cocktail
• Lime juice
• Vodka