Mojito
The Mojito is a refreshing, sweet, and slightly sour cocktail with a hint of mint and a subtle rum kick. It is a well-balanced drink that is both invigorating and easy to sip.
Gin Rickey Cocktail Recipe
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Gin Rickey Nutrition Facts
Calories:150
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:4g
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
Contents
History
The Gin Rickey cocktail was created in the late 19th century in Washington D.C. by bartender George A. Williamson at Shoomaker's Bar. It was named after Colonel Joe Rickey, a prominent lobbyist and regular at the bar. The drink gained popularity during the Prohibition era due to its simple ingredients and refreshing taste.
- Originally made with bourbon, the Gin Rickey eventually became more popular with gin as the base spirit.
- The cocktail is often associated with the classic novel 'The Great Gatsby' by F. Scott Fitzgerald, where it is mentioned as a favorite drink of the characters.
How Gin Rickey Tastes?
The Gin Rickey is a refreshing, crisp, and tart cocktail with a hint of sweetness. It has a strong citrus flavor, balanced by the botanicals in the gin and the effervescence of the club soda.
Interesting facts about Gin Rickey
- The Gin Rickey is considered a 'lowball' cocktail, meaning it is served in a short glass and typically has a lower alcohol content.
- It is a popular summer drink due to its refreshing and thirst-quenching qualities.
- The Gin Rickey is part of the 'Rickey' family of cocktails, which can be made with various base spirits, such as whiskey, vodka, or tequila.
Ingredients
- Gin: 2 oz(60ml)
- Lime: 1
- Fresh lime juice: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Club soda: 4 oz(120ml)
- Ice: As needed
A few good options for Gin Rickey are:
- Brockmans
- Silent Pool Gin
- Hendrick's Gin
Gin: 2 oz
Gin is the spirituous backbone of our beloved Rickey. At 2 oz, it's just enough to make its juniper goodness known without bowling you over. Less and you've got a soft drink; more, and you'd better clear your afternoon!
Alex Green
Lime: 1
Lime is the zesty bestie that every Gin Rickey needs. It brings fresh acidity, balancing that botanical gin. Leave it out and the drink loses its pizzazz—like gin going stag to a dance party.
Emma Rose
Fresh lime juice: 0.5 oz
This is where the tang comes in. Without it, the cocktail's like a high-five without the smack—lacking impact. But just the right amount makes it crisp and tart, making you smacking your lips for more.
Mary Mitkina
Club soda: 4 oz
Club soda adds the sparkle to your sip, giving that refreshing effervescence. It's like the Gin Rickey's laugh: light, bubbly, and absolutely infectious. No soda? You've got a sad, flat party in your glass.
Alex Green
Ice: As needed
Ice keeps things cool and chic—nobody likes a warm cocktail. Like a penguin in the desert, a Rickey without ice just doesn't work.
Emma Rose
Recipe. How to make Gin Rickey Drink
- Fill a highball glass with ice.
- Add 2 oz of gin to the glass.
- Squeeze half a lime into the glass, then drop the spent lime shell into the glass.
- Top with 4 oz of club soda.
- Gently stir to combine the ingredients.
- Garnish with a lime wheel or wedge.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
- Chill the glass before preparing the cocktail to keep it cold longer.
- Gently stir the cocktail to combine the ingredients without losing the carbonation of the club soda.
Perfect Pairings
Seafood
Oysters on the half shell: The briny freshness pairs beautifully with the crisp acidity of the Gin Rickey.
Grilled shrimp: A hint of smoke from grilling contrasts the zesty lime.
Light Snacks
Salted nuts: Their saltiness will enhance the Gin Rickey's refreshing nature.
Chips and guacamole: The creaminess of the avocado is a nice counterbalance to the drink's tartness.
Salads
Arugula salad with shaved Parmesan: The bitter greens play well with the cocktail's sharp profile.
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What you could change in Gin Rickey
- Gin: Can be substituted with vodka or white rum for a different flavor profile.
- Club Soda: Can be replaced with tonic water or sparkling water.
- Lime: Lemon can be used instead for a slightly different citrus note.
Explore all drinks starting with G here
And of course - twists🍹
Cucumber Gin Rickey
Ingredients: Gin, Cucumber slices, Lime, Fresh lime juice, Club soda, Ice
Muddle a few slices of fresh cucumber in the glass before adding the ice and other ingredients. This adds a garden-fresh twist, turning the Rickey into a spa-like refreshment.
Herbal Gin Rickey
Ingredients: Gin (with herbal notes), Rosemary sprig, Lime, Fresh lime juice, Club soda, Ice
Use a gin with strong herbal notes and garnish with a sprig of rosemary. It'll feel like you're sipping from a botanical garden's finest.
Spicy Gin Rickey
Ingredients: Gin, Jalapeño slices, Lime, Fresh lime juice, Club soda, Ice
Add a few slices of jalapeño to the cocktail for a fiery kick. It's the Gin Rickey for those who like to walk on the wild side of the garden.
In case you forgot basics how to make Gin Rickey
Insert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.
Learn everything on how to stirGarnishing 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 garnishingFind the cocktail you'd love!
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Frequently Asked Questions on Gin Rickey
Can I make the Gin Rickey Ahead?
No, it's recommended to serve the Gin Rickey immediately after making it as the club soda will lose its carbonation over time.
Can I use flavored gin for the Gin Rickey?
Yes, flavored gins can be used to add a unique twist to the Gin Rickey. However, be aware that it may alter the classic taste of the cocktail.
Is there any specific brand of gin recommended for the Gin Rickey?
No specific brand is required. Any brand of gin that you enjoy can be used to make a Gin Rickey.
What are some food pairings for the Gin Rickey?
The crisp, tart flavor of the Gin Rickey pairs well with a variety of foods. Shellfish, grilled chicken, salads, or creamy cheeses would all be excellent choices.
What's the best way to serve the Gin Rickey at a party?
You can easily make a large batch of the Gin Rickey mixture beforehand, but remember to add the club soda just before serving to ensure it remains fizzy.
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