Gimlet Cocktail – Classic Gin and Lime Recipe

A True Classic in a Glass

Bright, balanced, and timeless — the Gimlet Cocktail captures the pure refreshment of gin and lime. With just three ingredients, it’s proof that less really is more.

Background

The Gimlet dates back to the late 19th century and is often linked to British naval officers who mixed gin with lime cordial to prevent scurvy. Its simplicity and tart-sweet profile helped it survive every cocktail era since.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients

• Gin – the herbal, botanical heart of the drink.
• Lime Juice – adds tang and brightness.
• Simple Syrup – smooths the acidity for perfect balance.

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker
• Fine strainer
• Chilled cocktail glass

Why It Works

The Gimlet nails the sweet-sour-spirit balance. Gin’s crisp botanicals shine through the citrus, making it both refreshing and sophisticated — ideal for warm evenings or classy nightcaps.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vodka Gimlet – swap gin for vodka if you prefer a cleaner flavor.
• Cordial-Style – use ¾ oz Rose’s Lime Cordial instead of fresh juice + syrup for the old-school version.
• Herbal Twist – shake with a sprig of basil or mint for aroma.
• Cucumber Refresh – muddle cucumber slices before shaking for spa-vibes.

Helpful Tips

• Shake hard and fast — you want the drink icy cold, not watery.
• Always fine-strain to remove ice shards for a smooth pour.
• Chill the glass ahead to keep the cocktail crisp.
• Garnish simply with a lime wheel for classic presentation.