Gimlet – Gin Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade Gimlet with gin - a perfect balance of botanical gin, fresh lime, and subtle sweetness. This easy craft cocktail recipe delivers a crisp, refreshing classic that bartenders love. Master this timeless gin cocktail with our foolproof technique.

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

5 mins

Cook Time:

Serves:

1 cocktail

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"> <li class="ingredients-single-item">60ml London dry gin (Tanqueray, Beefeater or Plymouth)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">30ml fresh lime juice</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">15ml simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">Lime wheel or twist for garnish</li> </ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size: 1 cocktail

🔥 Calories: 165 calories

🥑 Fat: 0 g

🧈 Saturated Fat: 0 g

🍞 Carbohydrates: 6 g

🍭 Sugar: 5 g

🍗 Protein: 0 g

🫀 Cholesterol: 0 mg

🧂 Sodium: 1 mg

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"> <li class="equipment-single-item">Cocktail shaker</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Hawthorne strainer</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Jigger or measuring tool</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Chilled coupe or martini glass</li> </ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> Fill your coupe or martini glass with ice and water to chill while you prepare the cocktail. A properly chilled glass will keep your Gimlet cold longer and enhance the drinking experience. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> Add plenty of ice to your cocktail shaker - about ¾ full. The ice quantity matters as it affects dilution and temperature. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> Measure and pour 60ml of gin into the shaker. Choose a quality London dry gin for authentic botanical notes that complement the lime perfectly. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> Add 30ml of freshly squeezed lime juice - never use bottled lime juice as the bright, vibrant flavor is essential to a proper Gimlet. Strain out any pulp or seeds. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> Pour in 15ml of simple syrup. This 2:1:0.5 ratio creates the classic Gimlet balance, but you can adjust slightly to taste. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> Secure the top of your shaker and shake vigorously for 12-15 seconds. This duration is crucial - it properly chills the cocktail to around -5°C while creating just enough dilution to smooth out the alcohol's edge. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4> Empty the ice water from your glass and immediately strain the cocktail into it. A smooth, continuous pour will help maintain the drink's clarity. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4> Garnish with a lime wheel balanced on the rim or a lime twist expressed over the surface to release essential oils. The aromatic oils enhance the first sip experience dramatically. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4> Serve immediately while the Gimlet is perfectly chilled. The cocktail should appear crystal clear with a slight pale green hue - a sign of proper preparation. </li> </ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Gimlet – Gin Recipe?

A classic Gimlet requires just three main ingredients: 60ml of London dry gin (like Tanqueray, Beefeater or Plymouth), 30ml of fresh lime juice, and 15ml of simple syrup. It's typically garnished with a lime wheel or twist for added aroma.

How to make Gimlet – Gin Recipe at home?

Learn how to make Gimlet – Gin Recipe by filling a cocktail shaker with ice, adding 60ml gin, 30ml fresh lime juice, and 15ml simple syrup. Shake vigorously for 12-15 seconds until properly chilled. Strain into a pre-chilled coupe or martini glass and garnish with a lime wheel or twist. The perfect balance of botanical, tart and sweet flavours creates this refreshing classic cocktail.

What's the difference between a Gimlet made with fresh lime juice versus lime cordial?

Traditionally, Gimlets were made with Rose's Lime Cordial, creating a sweeter, less tart profile. Modern versions using fresh lime juice and simple syrup offer brighter, more vibrant flavours with better balance. Fresh lime provides authentic citrus notes and allows you to adjust sweetness to taste.

Can I substitute the gin in a Gimlet with another spirit?

Yes, you can create variations like a Vodka Gimlet (using vodka) or a Daiquiri (using rum instead of gin). Each substitution creates a different flavour profile, as gin's botanical notes complement lime differently than vodka's neutrality or rum's sweetness. The 2:1:0.5 ratio remains effective.

Why is proper shaking technique important when making a gin-based citrus cocktail?

Proper shaking (12-15 seconds) achieves optimal temperature (-5°C), perfect dilution to soften the alcohol's edge, and proper aeration for a silky texture. For citrus cocktails like Gimlets, vigorous shaking helps integrate the ingredients, creating a balanced mouthfeel while maintaining the bright, refreshing character.

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