The classic gimlet is traditionally made with gin and Rose’s sweetened lime juice. Since we usually have vodka on hand, we make vodka gimlets instead. They are fresh and delicious! For the best gimlet, try my homemade lime cordial (it’s easy!). Compared to store-bought, it tastes more fresh, zesty, and bright. I’ve shared how to make it in the gimlet recipe below! For more vodka cocktails, see our lemon drop martini or this cosmopolitan cocktail.
Key Ingredients
Vodka: I love using a higher-quality vodka like Stoli, Ketel One, or Grey Goose. There’s enough vodka in this cocktail that you’ll taste it, so use what you love. For a classic gimlet, use gin. Lime Cordial: You can buy it (Rose’s is a good option), but I love making my own. To make it, you simmer sugar with water and lime zest. Then, when the sugar dissolves (after a few minutes), you can stir in fresh lime juice. It’s sweeter than lime juice but more tart than plain simple syrup.
These gimlets are fresh, zesty, and bright. They are a little sweet, but not overly so. If you prefer them less sweet, add an extra squeeze of lime juice to each cocktail or bump up the vodka by a 1/2 ounce to 1 full ounce to balance the syrup. 2 ½ ounces lime cordial, try homemade lime cordial Lime slice for garnish 1/2 cup (118ml) water 1 teaspoon lime zest 1/2 cup (118ml) fresh lime juice, from 3 to 4 limes 2Set the pan aside to cool completely. Strain the lime syrup and mix it with the fresh lime juice. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
