Calamansi Rickey

The Calamansi Rickey is a bright, no-fuss drink that brings a sharp citrus punch and a clean finish. Calamansi syrup gives it a sweet-sour pop that’s a little more complex than lime or lemon. Mixed with crisp gin and bubbly club soda, it’s light, refreshing, and easy to build straight in the glass. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you want something sharp but not too strong. Inspired by eatingwell.com.

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Tasting Notes

The Calamansi Rickey is crisp, citrusy, and light with a refreshing finish. Gin gives it a clean herbal base, while calamansi syrup adds a sharp, slightly sweet citrus flavor that’s somewhere between lime and tangerine. The club soda stretches it out and adds a light fizz, keeping the drink dry and refreshing. It’s not too sweet, not too sour just a quick, citrus-forward cocktail that’s super easy to sip. Garnished with a lemon wheel, it’s great when you want something bright and low-effort that still tastes fresh and balanced.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a jigger and a bar spoon no shaker or strainer required. Build the drink directly in a chilled highball or Collins glass. Add ice first, then gin and syrup, then top with club soda and stir gently. A lemon wheel adds a nice finishing touch without overpowering the drink. No need for fancy tools just cold ingredients and a clean glass. You can prep your syrup and garnish ahead of time if making more than one.

Ingredients

• 1 oz gin
• 0.75 oz calamansi syrup
• 2 oz club soda
• Lemon wheel, for garnish

Instructions

• Fill a glass with ice.
• Add the gin and calamansi syrup.
• Stir gently to mix.
• Top with club soda.
• Garnish with a lemon wheel.

Pro Tips

• Use a dry or citrus-forward gin to match the calamansi.
• Chill your glass and ingredients for a cleaner finish.
• Stir gently after adding soda to keep the bubbles fresh.
• Use real calamansi syrup homemade or store-bought with natural juice.
• Lemon or lime wheel both work as garnish.
• Add a splash more soda if you want it lighter.
• Adjust syrup depending on how tart you like it.

When to Serve

The Calamansi Rickey is perfect for hot days, brunch, or when you want something fast and refreshing. It’s a solid happy hour pick or a great low-ABV option if you stretch it with more soda. Serve it at backyard get-togethers, picnics, or casual dinner parties. It pairs well with salty snacks, grilled seafood, or light dishes with citrus or herbs. Easy to make and easy to sip, this is a go-to when you want something light, fizzy, and citrus-forward.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Gin: Bombay Sapphire, Tanqueray, or Aviation
• Calamansi Syrup: Liber & Co., Small Hand Foods, or homemade with calamansi juice + sugar
• Club Soda: Topo Chico, Q Mixers, or Fever-Tree
• Garnish: Lemon or lime wheel—use whichever matches your flavor preference

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