What is a Gimlet? Traditionally speaking a gimlet is a tart, yet sweet, alcoholic concoction created of the clear spirit gin and lime juice. A Gimlet at its most basic contains only these two ingredients. However, over the years many variations have evolved from the Vodka Gimlet to the Fuzzy Gimlet and even the Tequila Gimlet and beyond. All of these alcoholic variants, and more, retain the spirit of simplicity and ease that makes a gimlet one of the staples of bars around the world.

What are the ingredients for a Gimlet? For a single serving Gimlet you will need:
2 ounces of gin
1/2 ounce of lime juice
lime wedge for garnish
ice

Pour the gin and lime over ice and stir. Pour into a cocktail glass and garnish with a lime wedge. Some Gimlet traditionalists prefer to strain the gimlet before pouring it into the glass, while others prefer it "dirty" and don't mind any residual lime clouding. In modern times, vodka is often substituted for gin.

Where did the Gimlet come from? Historically, the Gimlet is thought to be a creation of the British Royal Navy around the late 1800's when Britain mandated daily lime juice rations to every sailor to help fight off a scurvy outbreak. Scurvy is caused by Vitamin C deficiency. Previously, the British Royal Navy had used lemon juice with higher scurvy fighting properties. However, due to heavy lobbying by British lime growers in the West Indies, the British Royal Navy switched to the daily lime juice ration, which only had about 1/4 of the same scurvy, battling properties. So, the scurvy continued and the British became known as Limeys.

Why is a Gimlet called a Gimlet? There are two historical theories. One relates to the tool that is similar to a corkscrew, and named a gimlet. This tool was reportedly distributed with the lime juice barrels to sailors so they could bore holes in the barrels and access the juice. The second theory involves Sir Thomas Desmond Gimlette who retired as the British Royal Navy Surgeon General in the early 1900's. Sir Thomas Desmond Gimlette is said to have introduced his fellow sailors to their anti-scurvy ration of lime juice by mixing it with gin to make it more palatable. In his honor, sailors named the drink the Gimlette, and through time the name has been shortened to Gimlet.

The Gimlet remains a popular hit today. Here are some modern variations on the Gimlet to try.

What are the ingredients of a Cherry Gimlet? You will need:
1 1/2 ounces vodka or gin
1 ounce lime juice
1/2 ounce cherry liquor
maraschino cherry
ice

Combine the cherry liquor, your choice of gin or vodka, and lime juice in a cocktail glass over ice. Lightly stir until colors blend and garnish with a floating maraschino cherry.

What are the ingredients of a Fuzzy Gimlet? You will need:
2 ounces gin or vodka
1/2 ounce lime juice
3 1/2 ounces of carbonated lemon lime beverage
lime wedge
ice

Add gin (or vodka), and lime juice in shaker filled with ice, and shake well. Pour into a highball glass half filled with sprite. Garnish with the lime wedge.

What are the ingredients for a Tequila Gimlet? You will need:
1 ounce lemon juice
1/4 ounce lime juice
2 ounces white tequila
lemon wedge
ice

Place lemon juice, lime juice and white tequila in a shaker with two ice cubes. Shake and strain. Pour into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with a lemon wedge.

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