Gimlet

The Gimlet is one of the simplest and most elegant gin cocktails, combining just gin and lime juice (traditionally Rose's lime cordial) to create a tart, refreshing classic. Created in the 19th century by British Royal Navy Surgeon Rear-Admiral Sir Thomas Gimlette (or possibly named after the gimlet tool), the drink provided sailors with citrus to prevent scurvy while making Navy-strength gin more palatable. The modern craft version uses fresh lime juice and simple syrup instead of cordial, creating a more sophisticated, less sweet cocktail. Served in a chilled coupe glass or over ice in a rocks glass, the Gimlet represents British naval history, simple sophistication, and the debate between classic and craft versions. The drink embodies colonial drinking, the simplicity of two-ingredient cocktails, and the evolution of classic recipes. Raymond Chandler's Philip Marlowe declared the Gimlet "half gin and half Rose's lime juice and nothing else," cementing its literary credentials. The Gimlet's botanical gin and tart lime create refreshing simplicity that showcases quality gin. The cocktail demands good ingredients: London Dry or Navy-strength gin, fresh lime juice (for craft versions) or Rose's (for traditionalists), and proper balance. Whether served at a British officers' club or a modern gin bar, the Gimlet delivers tart sophistication.