Most professional and amateur mixologists alike know the magic of a well-crafted Gimlet cocktail. While it's made with just two simple ingredients, there's beauty in that simplicity, and the result is a drink so tart, refreshing, and dripping with old-school glamour that you suddenly feel transported to the roaring '20s. I've been making this cocktail for years, and I'm here to teach you how to make the perfect gin Gimlet.
A 1928 description of this classic drink listed the recipe as "gin, and a spot of lime", and although this how-to guide is just a smidge more complicated than that, the finished product will be worth the extra effort. Keep scrolling to learn how to make the perfect gin Gimlet.
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Let's start off by making sure you have the appropriate glassware.
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A Gimlet is traditionally served in a coupe glass, which has a longer stem and broad, shallow bowl. It's also known as a "champagne coupe" since it was originally designed for champagne. It's a good idea to invest in a set of these babies if you're looking to expand your home bar setup.The good news? Coupe glasses are surprisingly affordable.
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These Set of 4 Luminarc Assorted Brew Bar Craft Coupe Martini Glasses are available on Amazon for just over $20 bucks. If you're looking to quickly double your glassware but don't want to spend a fortune to do so, this is the set for you.Now that you've got the right glassware, grab your jigger.
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If you've never used a cocktail jigger before, you're definitely going to want to invest in one. It makes your drinks taste much more professional since you won't be just eyeballing the amount of liquor. I recommend a two-sided jigger with various measurements so you can use it for a variety of recipes.I recommend this jigger by OXO, which is the one I use at home.
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This OXO Steel Double Jigger is made from durable stainless steel and has a non-slip middle so you can practice your fancy bartender moves without worrying about embarrassing yourself in front of family and friends. The laser-etched measurements won't fade no matter how many times it goes through the dishwasher.The tart, distinctive flavor of a Gimlet comes from lime, so it's about to get juicy up in here.
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Now, here's where Gimlet recipes differ. Some call for just lime juice and gin, but without any added sweetness this can result in a drink that's overly bitter and too tart to enjoy. That's where Rose's Lime Juice comes in.This sweetened lime juice is the secret ingredient to a stellar Gimlet cocktail.
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Rose’s Sweetened Lime Juice is a delicious combination of fresh 100% lime juice and simple syrup that sweetens it enough without completely overpowering the lime's tartness. Any good bartender has a bottle of this on hand, and you can order a set of two on Amazon for just $17.17.Now it's time to pour all of your ingredients into your cocktail shaker.
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First things first, fill your shaker up a little more than halfway with ice. Then measure out two ounces of dry, high-quality gin and 2/3 of an ounce of Rose's using your jigger and add them to your shaker. Now, the fun part: put on the cap and get shaking!What's what? You don't have a cocktail shaker, either?
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I've got you covered. This Food Grade Stainless Steel Cocktail Shaker is my favorite because of the heavy-duty stainless steel and lightweight design. I've used some seriously clunky shakers in my lifetime, and this one is just easier and more fun to use. Plus, it's only $15 bucks.After you've sufficiently shaken your drink, it's time to pour.
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Take your coupe glass and pour your concoction until it reaches just below the rim. Garnish with a lime wheel to make it extra pretty. For an added bit of tartness, feel free to squeeze the fresh juice from the garnish into your glass and then toss it into the drink. This also creates a more laidback, non-stuffy look which, if you ask me, is way cooler.Now all that's left is serving your drink to your guests.
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If you want to push the envelope even further, I suggest finding a gorgeous tray to serve your drinks on. This Sandiklife Decorative Serving Tray has a vintage floral design and glam gold rim that would look right at home filled with classic cocktails. Cheers!