Gimlet

Cocktail recipe

The Gimlet is a timeless cocktail with a rich history and a simple yet refreshing recipe, traditionally made with equal parts gin and lime cordial. Its origins trace back to the late 19th or early 20th century and are tied to British naval history, where sailors drank lime juice to prevent scurvy, often mixing it with gin to improve its taste. The drink’s name is believed to either honor Sir Thomas Gimlette, a naval surgeon who promoted lime for its health benefits, or to reference the "sharp" and "piercing" flavor likened to a gimlet tool. A classic Gimlet uses Rose’s Lime Cordial and gin in a 50/50 ratio, shaken with ice and served chilled in a cocktail glass or over ice in a rocks glass, optionally garnished with a lime wheel. While modern variations often adjust the proportions for a more gin-forward profile or substitute fresh lime juice and simple syrup for a brighter taste, the Gimlet’s essence remains unchanged—a bright and tangy drink that balances the sweetness of lime cordial with the sharp botanicals of gin. The cocktail gained cultural significance after being immortalized in Raymond Chandler’s novel The Long Goodbye (1953), where it was described as "half gin and half Rose's Lime Juice and nothing else," securing its place as a symbol of simplicity and sophistication.