Cherry Sage Gimlet Cocktail Recipe

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Cherry Sage Gimlet Nutrition Facts

Calories:180

Fat:0g

Protein:0g

Carbohydrates:18g

Alcohol:14%

Created by

Nic Polotnianko

I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.

Last Updated: January 7, 2024

History

The Cherry Sage Gimlet is a modern twist on the classic Gimlet cocktail. The traditional Gimlet is a simple mix of gin and lime juice, often sweetened with simple syrup. This version elevates the experience by incorporating the herbal notes of sage and the sweet-tart profile of cherries.

  • Origins: The original Gimlet was said to be created by British sailors to prevent scurvy.
  • Popularity: It has gained popularity among those who appreciate herb-infused cocktails and a balance of sweet and sour flavors.
  • Occasions: Ideal for a sophisticated evening or a refreshing summer drink.

How Cherry Sage Gimlet Tastes?

The Cherry Sage Gimlet offers a harmonious blend of tartness from the lime, a subtle sweetness from the cherries, and a complex herbal backdrop from the sage. It's a refreshing cocktail with a sophisticated edge, perfect for sipping slowly.

Interesting facts about Cherry Sage Gimlet

  • The Gimlet was traditionally made with gin, but vodka can also be used as a base spirit.
  • Sage has been used for culinary and medicinal purposes for centuries, adding a historical touch to the cocktail.
  • Cherries not only add flavor but also a vibrant pop of color, making it visually appealing.

Ingredients

A few good options for Cherry Sage Gimlet are:

  • Brockmans
  • Silent Pool Gin
  • Hendrick's Gin

Learn everything on which Gin to choose

Gin

Gin is the spirit base for our gimlet - think of it as the foundation of a house. It's what gives the cocktail its kick and depth. The floral or botanical notes in gin pair beautifully with the earthy sage and sweet cherry. Use too little, and the drink tastes weak; too much, and you'll overpower the other flavors.

Emma Rose

Fresh Lime Juice

Fresh lime juice - because what's a gimlet without that zesty zing? It brightens everything up and adds a sharpness that cuts through sweetness. Substitute it with bottled juice, and you risk a flat-tasting cocktail.

Alex Green

Cherry Syrup

Cherry syrup brings a sweet and fruity whisper of summer to your glass. If you skip it, you miss out on a layer of flavor that plays with gin's complexity and lime's acidity. Too much might be cloying; too little, you'll ask, 'Where's the cherry?'.

Mary Mitkina

Fresh Sage Leaves

Sage introduces an aromatic and slightly peppery note that's crucial for the 'sage' part of our Cherry Sage Gimlet. It's the unexpected guest that gets everyone talking. No sage? You lose that herbaceous intrigue that makes this drink a standout.

Emma Rose

Soda Water

A splash of soda water adds a little sparkle to the party, giving the cocktail a refreshing lift and lightening the mix. Omit this, and the cocktail may feel a bit too intense or 'flat' in texture.

Alex Green

Cherry and Sage Leaf Garnish

The cherry and sage garnish is more than a fancy hat - it's a perfumed welcome sign. Sip the cocktail, and the scent from the garnish whispers what's to come on the palate. Leave it out, and the presentation and aromatic prelude to the drink just aren't the same.

Mary Mitkina

Recipe. How to make Cherry Sage Gimlet Drink

  1. Muddle the sage leaves gently in the bottom of a shaker.
  2. Add the gin, lime juice, and cherry syrup to the shaker.
  3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake until well-chilled.
  4. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
  5. Top with soda water.
  6. Garnish with a cherry and a sage leaf on a cocktail pick.

Pro Tips

  • Use a high-quality gin with a botanical profile that complements the sage.
  • When muddling the sage, be gentle to avoid bitterness.
  • Chill the glass beforehand to keep the cocktail cool longer.

Perfect Pairings

Appetizers

  • Charcuterie Board: The savory flavors of meats and cheeses complement the herbaceous notes of the cocktail.
  • Grilled Shrimp: The citrus tang in the gimlet pairs well with seafood, especially when there's a hint of char.

Main Courses

  • Roast Chicken: A simple herbed roast chicken could play nicely with the sage and cherry in the drink.
  • Pork Tenderloin: Pork with a fruity glaze would echo the cherry component in the gimlet.

Desserts

  • Lemon Tart: The sharpness of lemon curd would match the zesty lime juice, while the dessert's sweetness balances the gimlet's tartness.
  • Dark Chocolate: A piece of bittersweet chocolate could go well with the cocktail's cherry notes, creating a rich flavor pairing.

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What you could change in Cherry Sage Gimlet

  • Gin: If gin isn't your thing, try using vodka for a smoother taste.
  • Cherry Syrup: No cherry syrup? Muddle fresh cherries or use a splash of cherry liqueur.
  • Soda Water: For a non-fizzy version, omit the soda water.

Explore all drinks starting with C here

And of course - twists🍹

Smoky Cherry Sage Gimlet

  • Ingredients: 2oz Smoked Gin, 0.75oz Fresh Lime Juice, 0.5oz Cherry Syrup, 4 Fresh Sage Leaves, 1oz Soda Water, Cherry and Sage Leaf for garnish
  • Recipe:
    1. Repeat the original steps, substituting regular gin with smoked gin. This provides a campfire twist to the drink.
    2. The smoky notes of the gin will imbue the cocktail with a warm, autumnal vibe, perfect for cooler evenings.

Spicy Cherry Sage Gimlet

  • Ingredients: 2oz Gin, 0.75oz Fresh Lime Juice, 0.5oz Cherry Syrup infused with chili, 4 Fresh Sage Leaves, 1oz Soda Water, Cherry and Sage Leaf for garnish
  • Recipe:
    1. Infuse the cherry syrup with a mild chili to introduce a subtle heat to the sweetness.
    2. The spicy kick will add another layer of complexity and will contrast nicely with the freshness of the other ingredients.

Elderflower Cherry Sage Gimlet

  • Ingredients: 2oz Gin, 0.75oz Fresh Lime Juice, 0.25oz Cherry Syrup, 0.25oz Elderflower Liqueur, 4 Fresh Sage Leaves, 1oz Soda Water, Cherry and Sage Leaf for garnish
  • Recipe:
    1. Replace half of the cherry syrup with elderflower liqueur to add a floral sweetness.
    2. The elderflower will give the gimlet a more sophisticated and European flair, with a complex bouquet.

In case you forgot basics how to make Cherry Sage Gimlet

Add your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.

Learn everything on how to shake

Place your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.

Learn everything on how to strain

The key to proper muddling is to crush the ingredients just enough to release their flavors and not overdo it. Over-muddling can result in a bitter taste, especially with herbs.

Learn everything on how to muddle

Garnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).

Learn everything on garnishing

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Frequently Asked Questions on Cherry Sage Gimlet

Can I use dried sage instead of fresh sage leaves?

While fresh sage is preferred for its vibrant flavor and aroma, you can use a small pinch of dried sage as a substitute if fresh is not available. Keep in mind that dried herbs are more potent, so use less than you would if using fresh.

Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Cherry Sage Gimlet?

Yes, you can make a mocktail version by replacing the gin with a non-alcoholic spirit or additional soda water, and using non-alcoholic cherry syrup.

What type of glass is best for serving a Cherry Sage Gimlet?

A chilled cocktail glass, such as a martini glass or a coupe, is ideal for serving a Cherry Sage Gimlet to enhance the sipping experience.

How can I make my own cherry syrup at home?

Combine equal parts of pitted cherries, sugar, and water in a saucepan. Simmer until the sugar dissolves and the cherries break down. Strain out the solids and let the liquid cool before using it in your cocktail.

What are the best gin pairings for aromatic cocktails like the Cherry Sage Gimlet?

Look for gins with prominent botanical notes, such as juniper, citrus, or floral elements, which can complement the aromatic qualities of sage and cherry in the cocktail.

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