Classic Gimlet Cocktail Recipe with Snowdonia Welsh Dry Gin

Welcome to the Snowdonia Spirit Co cocktail guide, where we share our passion for crafting extraordinary spirits with a touch of Welsh heritage. Today, we delve into the classic world of cocktails with the classic Gimlet, a timeless drink that has charmed gin enthusiasts for nearly a century, featuring our Welsh Dry Gin.

A Brief History of the Gimlet Cocktail

The origins of the Gimlet are as intriguing as the cocktail itself. Often linked to the British navy, the Gimlet was originally created to prevent scurvy among sailors during the long voyages at sea. The key? Lime juice, rich in vitamin C. Over time, this practical health measure evolved into a beloved cocktail. The Gimlet gained literary fame through Raymond Chandler’s 1953 novel The Long Goodbye, where he described it as “half gin and half Rose’s lime juice and nothing else.” This description has influenced the cocktail’s preparation for decades, making it a simple yet potent mixture of gin and lime.

Why Lime Cordial?

While fresh lime juice is commonly used today, traditional Gimlets were often made with lime cordial, a sweetened, preserved lime juice. This gives the cocktail a smoother, slightly sweeter profile, which complements the robust flavours of gin. For those who appreciate a touch of sweetness, the lime cordial variant remains a popular choice.

Making the Perfect Gimlet with Snowdonia Welsh Dry Gin

Ingredients:
Snowdonia Welsh Dry Gin: 50ml
Lime cordial or fresh lime juice: 25ml (adjust to taste)
Simple syrup (optional, if using fresh lime juice): 10ml
Ice
Lime wheel or zest, for garnish

Instructions:

Chill your glass: Place your cocktail glass in the freezer to chill while you prepare your ingredients, ensuring a refreshingly cool cocktail experience.
Combine ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, mix the Snowdonia Welsh Dry Gin with lime cordial or fresh lime juice. If you’re using fresh lime, consider adding a touch of simple syrup to balance the tartness.
Shake with ice: Add ice to the shaker, covering the liquid. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. This not only chills the drink but also slightly dilutes it, perfecting its taste and texture.
Strain and serve: Strain the mixture into your chilled glass, ensuring a smooth pour without ice shards.
Garnish: Add a wheel of lime or a twist of lime zest to garnish, enhancing the visual appeal and giving a zesty aroma that complements the gin’s botanicals.
Enjoy: Sip and enjoy the crisp, refreshing flavours that make the Gimlet a beloved classic.

Snowdonia Welsh Dry Gin, The Ideal Choice for Your Gimlet

Choosing Snowdonia Welsh Dry Gin for your Gimlet isn’t just about taste – it’s about embracing a piece of Wales. Our gin is distilled using local botanicals that capture the essence of the Welsh landscape, providing a depth of flavour that stands out in the simplicity of a Gimlet.

The Gimlet, with its storied past and simple elegance, represents more than just a cocktail; it’s a celebration of history, culture, and the art of distillation. Whether you prefer the traditional sweetness of lime cordial or the tart freshness of lime juice, using Snowdonia Welsh Dry Gin ensures your Gimlet is not just made but crafted.