Eastside Gimlet Cocktail recipe
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You’ll find the Eastside Gimlet sits in the Gimlet family: a gin-and-lime sour sweetened with syrup, then lifted with fresh garden notes. While the Gimlet itself is a long-standing classic, this “Eastside” style reads as a modern, bar-born variation that leans into muddled produce and herbs for a brighter, more aromatic take. It keeps the crisp, bracing structure you expect from gin and citrus, but softens the edges with cooling freshness.
Dry gin brings juniper snap and a clean backbone, while lime juice supplies the tart, mouthwatering drive. Simple syrup smooths the lime’s sharpness and rounds the gin’s botanicals into a more seamless sip. Cucumber adds a cool, watery green note that makes the drink feel lighter, and mint leaves layer in a fresh, leafy lift that lingers on the finish. A small splash of soda water opens everything up, making the aromatics feel more vivid.
Serve it in a cocktail glass when you want something crisp, refreshing, and not too heavy—ideal as an aperitif or a warm-weather opener. If you like gin sours but want a cleaner, greener profile, this is your lane; it also suits anyone who enjoys mint-and-citrus brightness without extra fruitiness.
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Ingredients
Cocktail Colin says:
Dry gin and lime juice lead with a bright, juniper-citrus snap, softened by simple syrup, while cucumber slices and mint leaves add cool, green freshness and soda water gives a light, fizzy lift. It works because the syrup rounds the lime’s edge and the cucumber-mint combo tames the gin’s bite; ideal for sour lovers who want a crisp, garden-clean finish.
Method
How to make a Eastside Gimlet
- Dry gin 60ml, Soda water 15ml, Sugar / simple syrup 15ml, Lime juice 22.5ml, Cucumber 2 slices, Mint leaves 8 fresh
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- Begin by gently muddling the cucumber in the bottom of the shaker to release its flavors
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- Next, pour in the gin, lime juice, sugar syrup, and add some fresh mint leaves
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- Now, shake everything together with ice for about 10-15 seconds, or until the shaker feels frosty on the outside
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- Using a fine mesh strainer, pour the mixture into a chilled glass to ensure a smooth drink
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- Finish by topping off the glass with a splash of soda water for some fizz
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FAQ's
What is the origin of the Eastside Gimlet?
The Eastside Gimlet is a variation of the classic Gimlet, which combines gin and lime. The Eastside version adds cucumber and mint for a fresh twist. It's thought to have originated in the United States, blending the refreshing aspects of a Mojito with the traditional Gimlet.
Can I substitute the dry gin with another type of gin in the Eastside Gimlet?
Yes, you can substitute the dry gin with another type of gin in the Eastside Gimlet. While dry gin is recommended for its clean, botanical flavors, using a different type of gin, like an Old Tom or a more herbal gin, can offer a unique twist to the cocktail. However, it's crucial to consider how the botanicals of the substitute gin will pair with the cucumber and mint.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Eastside Gimlet?
Yes, a non-alcoholic version of the Eastside Gimlet can be made by substituting the gin with a non-alcoholic spirit that mimics gin’s botanical flavors. Alternatively, increasing the amounts of lime juice, soda water, and adding a bit more sugar syrup can help balance the drink while omitting the alcohol.
What's the best way to prepare the cucumber and mint for the Eastside Gimlet?
The best way to prepare the cucumber and mint for the Eastside Gimlet is to gently muddle them together in the cocktail shaker before adding the other ingredients. This helps release the essential oils and flavors from the mint leaves and the fresh aroma from the cucumber. Be careful not to over-muddle the mint to avoid releasing bitter flavors.
How does the alcohol content of an Eastside Gimlet compare to other classic cocktails?
With an alcohol content of 21.24%, the Eastside Gimlet sits in a moderate range compared to other classic cocktails. For instance, a classic Margarita has roughly the same alcohol content, while stronger cocktails like the Martini or Manhattan have higher alcohol contents. The Eastside Gimlet offers a balanced option for those who enjoy savoring their drink without the punch of a high-alcohol cocktail.
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