Forgotten Classic Cocktails: The Gimlet!

The Gimlet aka Gene Snyder on the rocks.

Once as popular as the Martini or Manhattan the mighty Gimlet is often overlooked by modern cocktailians. On several occasions I have even received a Martini with cocktail onions(Gibson) upon ordering a Gimlet. Two simple ingredients combine to make something much more. A juniper-citrus aroma, through the sweet and sour mid palate, and a long lingering finish. Hard to beat for a serious slake. If you have the means please make your own lime cordial, it really makes a difference. Recipes follow. Gimlet 1 / Scurvy 0

60ml Beefeater 24 Gin
25ml housemade Lime Cordial**
1 lime wheel (to garnish)

Combine Gin and Cordial in mixing glass. Top with ice. Shake well. Strain over fresh ice in rocks glass. Garnish with lime wheel.
serves 1.

** Lime Cordial
4 cups freshly squeezed lime juice
2.5 cups raw light agave nectar
approx 40 kaffir lime leaves, bruised to release flavour.

Place all ingredients in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil then decrease heat to low. simmer until slightly thickened – It should coat the back of a spoon. Using a slotted spoon remove the leaves and any scum that may have risen. Strain through a fine mesh sieve and store in a food safe container. Will keep refrigerated for 7-10 days. Recipe adapted from “Speakeasy” by Jason Kosmas and Dushan Zaric / Ten Speed Press 2010.

Be sure to never forget about the Classics!
Until next time, keep Raising the Bar with your mixology skill set! If you don’t, someone else will…