Why is it called a Gimlet?
The story goes that the Gimlet is named after Surgeon Admiral Sir Thomas Gimlette. He ostensibly prescribed the drink as a daily tonic to prevent disease among sailors and officers in the British Navy in the 19th century. Our kind of guy!
What is the difference between a Gimlet and a John Collins?
A gimlet contains gin, lime juice, simple syrup, and an optional splash of soda water. A Tom Collins, on the other hand, contains bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and an optional splash of soda water. It’s the same pattern, but a slightly different execution.
How to serve a Gimlet
We believe that the Gimlet is best served in a pretty coupe glass. This glass shape is perfect for quick aeration and snappy aroma development – perfect for a drink like the Gimlet.
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Tasty Gimlet variations to try
The great thing about the easy list of gimlet ingredients is that you can really adapt this drink to suit your taste. This is why you find so many variations on this theme, you see! The fun part is that the gin Gimlet ingredients listed here can 100% be switched out to incorporate different spirits, and the recipe is so versatile that it can be built and expanded on as well.
Here are a few twists and turns you can take with the classic Gimlet:
Vodka Gimlet
Vodka gimlet ingredients follow the same pattern as the gin version – you simply use high-quality vodka instead of gin. This is an excellent option if you prefer a smoother flavour rather than the herbaceous notes imparted by gin.
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Tequila Gimlet
The same goes for tequila gimlet ingredients – you simply use good tequila instead of gin. This is often a favourite of cocktail enthusiasts who like a smoky note in their drink.
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Basil Gimlet
Basil gimlet ingredients stay true to the original gin-based recipe, only adding in some muddled basil to the mix. This really brings the lively green notes of the juniper-based spirit to the forefront.
Cucumber Gimlet
Cucumber gimlet ingredients are similarly simple – just add some muddled cucumber for a more delicately flavoured version of the sour sipper.