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The Gimlet is believed to have originated in the British Royal Navy during the 19th century. At the time, scurvy—a disease caused by Vitamin C deficiency—was a serious threat to sailors on long voyages. To combat this, the Navy introduced lime juice into sailors’ daily rations.
However, lime juice on its own was too tart and unpleasant. To make it more palatable and preserve it for extended periods, it was often mixed with gin or rum. This practice led to the birth of the Gimlet, a simple but effective drink that provided both nutrition and warmth in the harsh conditions at sea.
Video Credit: The Blue Collar Bartender
One of the most significant developments in the history of the Gimlet was the invention of Rose’s Lime Cordial in 1867 by Lauchlan Rose, a Scottish merchant. This sweetened and preserved lime juice became an essential ingredient in making the Gimlet more refined and consistent. Unlike fresh lime juice, Rose’s Lime Cordial did not spoil easily, making it a staple in naval supplies and a key ingredient in early versions of the cocktail.
Why Is It Called a Gimlet?
There are two primary theories about the origin of the name. It is believed that the drink may be named after Rear-Admiral Sir Thomas Gimlette, a British naval doctor who is believed to have promoted the practice of mixing gin with lime juice for its health benefits. The name might also have come from the tool "gimlet", a small hand drill used to bore holes, possibly referring to the drink’s sharp, piercing taste.
By the 1920s and 1930s, the Gimlet had transitioned from a practical naval necessity to a popular bar drink. It was widely enjoyed during Prohibition in the United States, where gin-based cocktails flourished due to the spirit’s widespread availability. Over time, the Gimlet became a refined classic, often enjoyed with fresh lime juice instead of cordial.
Why Infusing the Gimlet with Basil Makes It Special
A classic Gimlet is already a well-balanced cocktail with a tangy-sweet profile. However, adding basil infusion introduces a new dimension of herbal freshness that perfectly complements the botanicals in gin.
Basil’s natural oils release a sweet, slightly peppery aroma that enhances the floral and citrus notes of gin. The earthy undertones of basil mellow out the tartness of lime juice, creating a smoother finish. The bright, slightly spicy flavour of basil adds depth, making the cocktail more summery.
Basil-infused Gimlets are popular in modern craft cocktail bars, where bartenders often experiment with fresh herbs to create sophisticated variations of classic drinks. This twist makes the drink more appealing to those who enjoy herbaceous and botanical flavours in their cocktails.
Basil-Infused Gimlet Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 oz gin (preferably a botanical gin like Hendrick’s or Tanqueray)
- 3/4 oz fresh lime juice (or Rose’s Lime Cordial for a sweeter version)
- 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust based on sweetness preference)
- 5-6 fresh basil leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- Ice
- Lime wheel and
Instructions:
- Muddle the basil leaves in a cocktail shaker to release their essential oils.
- Add gin, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Fill with ice and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with a basil sprig or lime wheel.
Expert Tips To Make The Perfect Basil Gimlet
Use Fresh Basil: Always opt for fresh, vibrant basil leaves. The best variety is sweet basil, as it has a slightly peppery yet mild flavor that complements gin.
Muddle Gently: Over-muddling basil can release bitter tannins, so press lightly to extract oils without crushing the leaves too much.
Choose the Right Gin: A botanical or citrus-forward gin works best. London Dry gins with juniper-heavy notes also pair well with basil.
Shake Well: Shaking properly chills and aerates the drink, balancing the flavours.
Adjust Sweetness: If using Rose’s Lime Cordial, reduce or omit the simple syrup, as cordial already contains sugar. Try Thai basil for a spicier kick or add black pepper for an extra layer of depth.
The Gimlet has evolved from a practical naval remedy to a sophisticated cocktail enjoyed worldwide. Infusing it with fresh basil brings a modern, herbaceous twist that enhances its citrusy profile, making it more refreshing and aromatic. Whether you enjoy it in its classic form or with an herbal upgrade, the Gimlet remains a timeless and versatile cocktail perfect for any occasion.
