The gimlet is a cocktail with a rich history and a refreshing bite, known for its simple blend of gin and lime. Its origins trace back to the British Royal Navy in the late 19th century, when sailors were required to consume citrus juice to ward off scurvy. To make the sour lime juice more palatable—and to encourage compliance—officers began mixing it with gin. The introduction of Rose’s Lime Juice in 1867, a sweetened and preserved lime cordial developed by Lauchlin Rose, made this combination even more accessible and shelf-stable. The drink may have taken its name from Surgeon Admiral Sir Thomas Gimlette, who reportedly administered this lime-and-gin concoction as a health measure. Originally, gimlets were made with equal parts gin and Rose’s Lime Juice, a sweet and sharp mixture that became a naval staple and eventually caught on with the public. Over time, bartenders began refining the recipe, swapping out cordial for fresh lime juice and simple syrup to create a brighter, more balanced flavor. In the mid-20th century, vodka gimlets also gained popularity, especially in North America, as drinkers looked for a smoother alternative to gin.The gimlet cemented its place in cocktail lore thanks in part to pop culture, particularly Raymond Chandler’s 1953 novel The Long Goodbye, in which a character famously declares, “A real gimlet is half gin and half Rose’s lime juice and nothing else.” Today, the gimlet has found new life in the craft cocktail movement, embraced for its versatility, minimalist ingredients, and refreshing profile. Whether made with gin or vodka, fresh lime or cordial, the gimlet remains a timeless drink with roots as practical as they are storied.
To ensure the best quality, I use a homemade lime cordial, click here for the recipe
Recipe:
ingredients:
2 ounces London Dry gin of our choosing
1.5 ounces lime cordial
Lime wheel for garnish
Method:
In a cocktail shaker combine 2 ounces of your favorite London dry style gin and 1.5 ouncesime cordial
Ad ice. Shake well.
Strain into a coupe glass.
Garnysh with lime wheel.
