Paul Kushner
The Cherry Gimlet is a refreshing and well-balanced cocktail that combines the botanical depth of gin with the tart brightness of fresh lime juice and the sweet richness of cherry liqueur. This vibrant twist on the classic gimlet offers a perfect harmony of flavors, making it both smooth and invigorating.
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A fresh cherry garnish enhances the visual appeal and fruity aroma, making this drink ideal for any occasion. Easy to make yet incredibly flavorful, the Cherry Gimlet is a must-try for those who enjoy a crisp, citrusy cocktail with a touch of natural sweetness.
Tasting Notes
The Cherry Gimlet is a vibrant and refreshing take on the classic gimlet, blending botanical gin, tart lime juice, and the rich, fruity depth of cherry liqueur. A touch of simple syrup smooths out the acidity, ensuring a well-balanced, crisp, and subtly floral cocktail.
The bright cherry garnish not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a delicate aroma, making each sip as pleasing to the senses as it is to the palate. Whether enjoyed as a sophisticated evening drink or a lively addition to a cocktail party, the Cherry Gimlet is a stunning and flavorful choice for any occasion.
Equipment and Glassware
To craft the Cherry Gimlet, gather a cocktail shaker, strainer, and a chilled coupe or martini glass for the perfect presentation. Chilling the glass beforehand enhances the drink’s crisp and refreshing quality, ensuring each sip is smooth and invigorating. Fill the shaker with ice, then add gin, fresh lime juice, cherry liqueur, and simple syrup.
Shake vigorously to blend the flavors while achieving the ideal chill. Strain into the prepared glass, allowing the vibrant color to shine. Garnish with a fresh cherry or lime wheel for an elegant finishing touch, making this Cherry Gimlet as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz lime juice
- 3/4 oz simple syrup
- 1/2 oz cherry liqueur
- cherries for garnish
Instructions
- Chill a cocktail glass in the freezer.
- In a cocktail shaker, add the gin, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, cherry liqueur, and a handful of ice cubes.
- Shake well until the outside of the shaker feels cold to the touch.
- Strain the mixture into your chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a fresh cherry or a lime wedge on the rim of the glass.
- Sip and enjoy your refreshing Cherry Gimlet.
Pro Tips
- Use high-quality cherry liqueur such as Luxardo Sangue Morlacco or Cherry Heering for the best depth of flavor.
- For a more tart version, reduce the simple syrup slightly.
- If you prefer a stronger cherry profile, increase the cherry liqueur by ¼ oz.
- Double strain to remove any small ice shards for a smoother drinking experience.
When to Serve
The Cherry Gimlet is a versatile and sophisticated cocktail, perfect for spring and summer evenings, elegant cocktail parties, or as a refreshing pre-dinner drink. Its bold yet balanced flavor profile combines zesty citrus with a rich fruity twist, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a bright, gin-forward cocktail with a touch of sweetness.
The vibrant cherry garnish and crisp presentation make it a standout drink for any occasion, offering both visual appeal and refreshing flavor. Whether you’re toasting to a special night or simply unwinding with a refined cocktail, the Cherry Gimlet is sure to impress.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Gin: Bombay Sapphire, Hendrick’s, Tanqueray
- Cherry Liqueur: Luxardo Sangue Morlacco, Cherry Heering, Leopold Bros. Michigan Tart Cherry
- Lime Juice: Always use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best acidity and brightness.
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz lime juice
- 3/4 oz simple syrup
- 1/2 oz cherry liqueur
- cherries for garnish
Instructions
Prepare Your Glass:
- Chill a cocktail glass in the freezer.
Mix the Cocktail:
- In a cocktail shaker, add the gin, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, cherry liqueur, and a handful of ice cubes.
Shake It Up:
- Shake well until the outside of the shaker feels cold to the touch.
Strain and Serve:
- Strain the mixture into your chilled cocktail glass.
Garnish:
- Garnish with a fresh cherry or a lime wedge on the rim of the glass.
Enjoy:
- Sip and enjoy your refreshing Cherry Gimlet.
Notes
- Use high-quality cherry liqueur such as Luxardo Sangue Morlacco or Cherry Heering for the best depth of flavor.
- For a more tart version, reduce the simple syrup slightly.
- If you prefer a stronger cherry profile, increase the cherry liqueur by ¼ oz.
- Double strain to remove any small ice shards for a smoother drinking experience.
