Naval Origins
In 1867, the Merchant Shipping Act required all Royal Navy ships to carry lime juice to combat scurvy. Officers, being officers, mixed it with their gin ration. The drink was named after Surgeon Rear-Admiral Sir Thomas Gimlette, who allegedly prescribed the mixture to his sailors.
Fresh vs Rose's
The classic Gimlet was made with Rose's Lime Cordial — a preserved lime juice that was shelf-stable for long voyages. The modern approach uses fresh lime juice and sugar syrup instead, producing a brighter, more vibrant cocktail. Both are legitimate; they're simply different drinks.
The Right Gin
The Gimlet needs a gin that can go toe-to-toe with lime's acidity. Navy Strength gin (57% ABV) is historically accurate and punches through the citrus beautifully. Plymouth or Tanqueray are excellent at standard strength.
Variations
- Eastside: Add muddled cucumber and mint — a garden-party Gimlet
- Southside: Add fresh mint — essentially a gin Mojito
- Rose's Gimlet: 2:1 gin to Rose's Lime Cordial, stirred — the purist's version
