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The Gimlet Cocktail: A Classic with a Zesty Twist

The Rusty Bartender

The Gimlet Cocktail
The Gimlet Cocktail

The Gimlet cocktail is a drink with a personality as sharp as its citrus kick. It’s an enduring classic that’s stood the test of time, transitioning from a sailor’s necessity to a modern-day favorite. But like any good story, the Gimlet has its fair share of drama—and today, we’ll dive into its history, recipe, and the spirited debate over lime cordial versus fresh lime juice.





A Little History: From High Seas to High Society

The Gimlet’s origins trace back to the British Navy in the 19th century. To prevent scurvy, sailors were given a daily dose of lime juice, rich in vitamin C. Of course, sailors being sailors, they decided to mix it with gin to make the medicine go down a little easier. (Because why wouldn’t you?)



Fast forward to the 20th century, and the Gimlet found its way into bars and high society, becoming a symbol of refined drinking. Raymond Chandler, the famous author, even name-dropped it in his novel The Long Goodbye, declaring, “A real gimlet is half gin and half Rose’s Lime Juice and nothing else.”






The Great Lime Debate: Cordial vs. Fresh Lime Juice

Here’s where the controversy comes in. Traditionalists argue that the Gimlet must be made with lime cordial, specifically Rose’s Lime Juice, to preserve its historical authenticity. Purists, on the other hand, advocate for using fresh lime juice to achieve a cleaner, brighter flavor.



Online cocktail forums are ablaze with heated debates on the matter. One camp insists that fresh lime juice waters down the drink, while the other claims that lime cordial is overly sweet and artificial. The truth? It’s all about personal preference. (Though, let’s be honest, in Belfast, we’d probably argue over the best pub for a pint before we’d agree on this one.)






Making Your Own Lime Cordial

If you want to take matters into your own hands, why not make your own lime cordial? It’s surprisingly simple and allows you to strike the perfect balance between tart and sweet. Here’s a tried-and-true recipe:



Homemade Lime Cordial Recipe:

  • 1 1/2 cups simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, heated until dissolved)

  • 3 tsp citric acid

  • 4 tsp lime zest

  • 1 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice



Method:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.

  2. Blend until smooth.

  3. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a bottle.

  4. Store in the fridge and use it to elevate your Gimlet game.



The Gimlet Recipe (Steve the Bartender Style)

I’ve taken inspiration from Steve the Bartender’s cocktail book for this recipe, and it’s an absolute winner.



Ingredients:

  • 60ml (2 oz) gin

  • 30ml (1 oz) lime cordial (homemade or store-bought)

  • Ice

  • Lime wheel, for garnish



Method:

  1. Fill a shaker with ice.

  2. Add the gin and lime cordial.

  3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.

  4. Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.

  5. Garnish with a lime wheel.



This version strikes a beautiful balance between the gin’s botanical notes and the lime’s tangy sweetness, creating a refreshing drink that’s both simple and sophisticated.






A Modern Classic

The Gimlet may have humble beginnings, but its enduring appeal lies in its versatility and simplicity. Whether you’re team lime cordial or team fresh lime juice, there’s no denying the cocktail’s charm. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own cordial to create a drink that’s truly your own.



So, next time you’re in the mood for something classic yet zesty, shake up a Gimlet. And if anyone questions your choice of lime, just raise your glass and say, “It’s my cocktail, my rules.” Sláinte!


Watch me make it here.


How to make a Gimlet Video

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The Rusty Bartender
Wangaratta , Victoria , Australia

ABN 35906093959
©2020 by The Rusty Bartender. 

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