Gin Rickey
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Gin Rickey
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.35 / 5
Gin Rickey is a classic cocktail that originated in the United States in the late 19th century. It is a simple and refreshing drink that consists of lime juice, gin, and tonic water. The lime adds a tangy and citrusy flavor, while the gin provides a strong botanical taste. The tonic water adds a bubbly, slightly bitter note to balance out the sweetness of the lime. The drink is typically served over ice and is a popular choice for hot summer days. It became popular during the Prohibition era as a way to mask the harsh taste of homemade liquor. Today, Gin Rickey remains a beloved cocktail, known for its light and crisp flavor profile.
Check out all our FAQ's on this cocktail
Base ingredient
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Gin
Calories
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110 calories
Garnish
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Lime
Alcohol content
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8% | 2.4 units *

Tags

Gin ingredient icon
Gin cocktails
Tonic water ingredient icon
Top ten Tonic water cocktails

Highball glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Lime cocktail ingredient icon for the Gin Rickey cocktail
Lime
Gin cocktail ingredient icon for the Gin Rickey cocktail
Gin
Soda water cocktail ingredient icon for the Gin Rickey cocktail
Soda water
Serves:
-
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

4/5

The Gin Rickey offers a masterful blend of simplicity and refreshment, with its crisp lime tang meeting the juniper-forward sharpness of gin, beautifully offset by the mild bitterness of tonic water. This cocktail's clean, fizzy profile not only quenches thirst but also dances elegantly on the palate, living up to its legacy as a Prohibition-era favorite and a timeless choice for beating the heat.

Method
How to make a Gin Rickey

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
In a tall glass, squeeze the juice of the lime and drop the shell into the glass
Pour the gin, then add ice
Top up with the sparkling water and stir
Garnish with a lime wedge and serve

Power tips
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Use a high-quality gin with prominent botanical notes to enhance the flavor profile of your Gin Rickey. Something like a London Dry Gin will work exceptionally well.
Instead of just squeezing the lime, muddle the lime shell in the glass after squeezing it. This will release the oils from the lime peel, adding an extra layer of citrus aroma and flavor.
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Gin Rickey masterclass

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The Ultimate Guide to Making a Perfect Gin Rickey Cocktail

The Gin Rickey is a cocktail that beautifully marries simplicity and sophistication. This guide aims...

Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Stir  ·  Garnish  · 

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Comments

Java Guy avatar
Java Guy

I use sparkling water or club soda in a rickey, rather than tonic water. The recipe here is a gin and tonic.

👍 1
Make me a cocktail avatar
Make me a cocktail

Good spot, changed the recipe now to use soda water.

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FAQ's

Origins history icon

What is the history behind the Gin Rickey?

The Gin Rickey was created in Washington D.C. in the late 19th century. It is named after Colonel Joe Rickey, a lobbyist who frequented Shoomaker's bar where the drink was first made. Originally made with bourbon, the switch to gin became popular and the Gin Rickey emerged as a refreshing highball cocktail that gained popularity in the summer months.

Ingredient substitutions icon

Can I use a different type of gin for a Gin Rickey?

Yes, you can use different types of gin to make a Gin Rickey. London Dry Gin is commonly used for its crisp and dry flavor, but feel free to experiment with other types like American, Old Tom, or even flavored gins to add a unique twist to your drink.

Non alcoholic variations icon

Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Gin Rickey?

Yes, there is a non-alcoholic version known as the 'Virgin Rickey' or 'Mocktail Rickey.' Instead of gin, you can use a non-alcoholic gin substitute or simply increase the lime juice and tonic water proportions. You'll still enjoy the refreshing qualities of the original cocktail, but without the alcohol.

Faq icon

What's the difference between a Gin Rickey and a Gin and Tonic?

The main difference between a Gin Rickey and a Gin and Tonic lies in their composition. A Gin Rickey is made with gin, lime juice, and soda water, whereas a Gin and Tonic is made with gin, tonic water, and usually a lime wedge for garnish. The Gin Rickey is slightly tart and less sweet compared to the subtly sweet and quinine-flavored Gin and Tonic.

Garnishing tips icon

How should I garnish a Gin Rickey?

A Gin Rickey is traditionally garnished with a lime wedge or wheel. You can also add a sprig of mint for a refreshing aroma and an additional layer of flavor. The garnish not only makes the drink visually appealing but also enhances its fresh, citrusy taste.

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* US units estimated based on the standard alcohol content of the ingredients used and the proportions in the recipe. Please drink responsibly.
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