Cherry Gin Rickey

The Cherry Gin Rickey takes a classic gin cooler and gives it a fruity, citrus-driven twist. Cherry syrup adds rich color and flavor without being overly sweet, while lime juice brings a sharp edge that balances the drink. Gin provides the structure, and soda water keeps things light and bubbly. It’s an easygoing cocktail that works well on warm days, offering refreshment with just enough depth.

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Tasting Notes

The Cherry Gin Rickey is bright, crisp, and lightly sweet with a bold cherry twist. The cherry syrup offers deep fruit flavor without overwhelming the dry edge of the gin. Lime juice keeps things lively with sharp acidity, while soda water lightens the drink and adds a refreshing sparkle. The result is a highball that’s easy to sip but still delivers flavor with clarity and balance. The garnish of cherry and lime adds both aroma and color, giving the drink a clean, polished look. It’s light, tart, and perfect for those who prefer fruit-forward drinks that aren’t overly sweet.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a jigger to measure the syrup, gin, and lime juice accurately. A citrus squeezer ensures fresh juice for best flavor. A bar spoon is useful for gently stirring the drink after topping with soda water. This cocktail is best served in a Collins or highball glass to show off the bubbles and accommodate ice. Have a paring knife ready to slice a thin lime wheel and a cocktail pick if you’d like to skewer the garnish.

Ingredients

• 2 oz cherry syrup
• 2 oz gin
• 1 oz lime juice
• 3 oz soda water
• Garnish: lime wheel, cherry

Instructions

• Fill a highball glass with ice.
• Add cherry syrup, gin, and lime juice.
• Stir gently to combine.
• Top with soda water and give it a light stir.
• Garnish with a lime wheel and cherry.

Pro Tips

• Use high-quality cherry syrup (or homemade) for best flavor and color.
• Fresh lime juice is key, avoid bottled versions.
• Pour soda water slowly to maintain bubbles.
• Stir gently after topping to prevent loss of carbonation.
• Chill all ingredients beforehand for a colder, crisper drink.
• Use clear ice for a cleaner presentation.
• For a drier version, reduce cherry syrup to 1 oz.

When to Serve

This Cherry Gin Rickey is a natural fit for spring and summer occasions. It works well at picnics, rooftop parties, or laid-back cocktail hours. Because of its lightness and low-alcohol character, it’s also a solid choice for brunches or afternoon gatherings. The Cherry Gin Rickey suits any setting where you want something fruit-forward yet balanced. Serve it when you’re looking for a colorful drink that’s refreshing, slightly tart, and simple to build.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Gin: Bombay Sapphire, Beefeater, or The Botanist
• Cherry Syrup: Luxardo, Monin, or homemade with cherries and sugar
• Soda Water: Fever-Tree, Topo Chico, or Q Club Soda
• Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed Persian limes preferred
• Garnish: Luxardo cherries or fresh Bing cherries for best results

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• Sour Cherry Gin Sling
• Tiny Sparrow Martini
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