This classic gimlet recipe is easy to make with gin, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup. It's tart and refreshing—one of my favorite cocktails!
I love a gimlet cocktail. Made with just 3 ingredients—gin, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup—this sour cocktail is bright, botanical, and refreshing. I often order a gimlet when I’m out, but because this drink is so simple, it’s also easy to make at home.
I’m sharing a classic gin gimlet recipe below. This recipe uses ratios I like, skewing heavier on the gin to let its floral flavor shine. If you prefer a sweeter drink, or a tangier one, feel free to add an extra splash of simple syrup or lime juice. Cheers!
Gimlet Cocktail Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic gin cocktail:
- Gin, of course! – Because this cocktail is so simple, you’ll really taste the gin. Make sure to use one with a flavor profile you love! I’m a fan of Hendrick’s, St. George Botanivore, and Koval Dry Gin (made locally in Chicago!).
- Fresh lime juice – Citrus juice is a key ingredient in any sour cocktail. Freshly squeezed lime juice will give your drink the brightest, freshest flavor. You’ll also want a thin lime slice for garnish.
- Simple syrup – For sweetness. You can easily make your own with equal parts sugar and water. Learn how in this simple syrup recipe.
One last thing—don’t forget ice for your cocktail shaker!
Find the complete recipe with measurements below.
How to Make a Gimlet
This gimlet recipe is super simple to make:
- Combine the gin, lime juice, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Cover and shake until chilled.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a lime wheel and serve!
This gimlet recipe is stronger than some. Instead of following the “golden ratio” of sour cocktails—2 parts spirit to 1 part sweet to 1 part sour—it goes heavier on the gin and lighter on the sweet/sour.
I love this balance, but feel free to adjust it to create a drink you love. Add more lime for a tangier drink or extra simple syrup for a sweeter one.
Find the complete recipe with measurements below.
Recipe Variations
Make a vodka gimlet: Use vodka instead of gin.
Go old school: Now for a bit of gimlet history! The gimlet has roots in the 19th century, when the British Royal Navy gave sailors daily rations of citrus juice to prevent scurvy.
The juice was originally diluted with alcohol to preserve it, but in 1867, Rose’s Lime Juice Cordial—the first sweetened lime juice concentrate—was patented. It became the default citrus ration on ships. The first gimlet is thought to have been made by a sailor who combined Rose’s Lime Cordial with gin.
- For this variation, use Rose’s Lime Juice instead of the fresh lime juice, and omit the simple syrup. Add more Rose’s to taste. Early recipes call for a 50/50 mix of Rose’s and gin!
More Cocktail Recipes to Try
If you loved learning how to make a gimlet, try one of these classic cocktails next:
Gimlet Cocktail
Ingredients
- 2½ ounces gin
- ½ ounce fresh lime juice
- ½ ounce simple syrup
- Ice
- Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions
- Place the gin, lime juice, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker. Add ice and shake until well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled coupe glass and garnish with a lime wheel.
Thank you for this amazing recipe. It is really refreshing and a perfect choice for hot summer evenings.
Found this recipe looking for a classic gimlet for a little Palm Springs style party and this was perfection. Thank you for the great recipe!
Hi Rachel, I’m glad you enjoyed it!
love this, a great retro cocktail for me, long time since I’ve had any gin cocktails, thank you
I am not a fan of gin, but I LOVE me a vodka Gimlet! It’s been a while since I’ve had one, so I think I may have to remedy that soon!