Paul Kushner
When temperatures rise, a Pineapple Lime Rickey is the perfect way to stay refreshed. This lively drink combines the natural sweetness of fresh pineapple with the bright tang of lime, striking a perfect balance of flavors. A generous pour of sparkling water adds an invigorating fizz, making each sip crisp and revitalizing. Whether enjoyed on a sunny afternoon or served at a gathering, this easy-to-make beverage never fails to impress. Its tropical twist on a classic Rickey brings a taste of summer in every glass. Give it a try and enjoy a cool, flavorful escape from the heat.
This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy
Tasting Notes
The Pineapple Lime Rickey is a bright, citrusy, and effervescent cocktail with a delightful tropical twist. The botanical notes of gin pair beautifully with the sweet, tangy pineapple juice, while the fresh lime juice adds a zesty tartness that keeps the drink crisp and refreshing. The bubbles from club soda or sparkling water give it a light, airy feel, making it a perfect cocktail for those who love a balanced mix of sweetness, acidity, and fizz.
Equipment and Glassware
To make this cocktail, you’ll need a cocktail shaker to mix and chill the ingredients, a jigger for accurate measurements, and a citrus juicer to extract the freshest lime juice. A tall Collins glass or a highball glass is ideal for serving, as it allows room for plenty of ice and the fizzy club soda. For stirring, a bar spoon works best to gently incorporate the bubbles without flattening them.
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tsp sugar optional, depending on your taste and the sweetness of the pineapple
- Club soda or sparkling water to top
- Lime slices and pineapple chunks for garnish
Instructions
Mix the Ingredients:
- In a shaker, combine the gin, pineapple juice, lime juice, and sugar if using. Shake well until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
Prepare the Glass:
- Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.
Combine and Serve:
- Pour the mixture from the shaker over the ice. Top with club soda or sparkling water to your liking.
Garnish and Enjoy:
- Garnish with a slice of lime and a chunk of pineapple on the rim of the glass. Stir gently before drinking.
Pro Tips
- Use a quality gin with citrus or floral notes for the best balance—London dry gin adds crispness, while botanical gins enhance the tropical flavors.
- Fresh pineapple juice makes a huge difference in flavor—if possible, blend and strain fresh pineapple instead of using bottled juice.
- Adjust the sweetness by omitting sugar if your pineapple juice is naturally sweet.
- For a frozen version, blend all ingredients (except club soda) with ice for a slushy consistency.
- Experiment with flavored soda water, like coconut or lime, for an extra layer of depth.
When to Serve
This refreshing and bubbly cocktail is perfect for warm weather and tropical-themed gatherings. It’s an excellent choice for poolside lounging, backyard barbecues, brunches, and casual summer evenings. The Pineapple Lime Rickey’s light and citrusy profile also makes it an ideal aperitif before a meal or a fun, low-alcohol option when sipped with extra club soda.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
For a smooth and well-balanced Pineapple Lime Rickey, consider these gins:
- Hendrick’s – Light and floral, pairs beautifully with pineapple.
- Tanqueray No. Ten – A citrus-forward gin that enhances the lime juice.
- The Botanist – Herbal and complex, for a layered flavor experience.
For club soda, brands like Fever-Tree, Q Mixers, or Topo Chico provide high-quality carbonation and a crisp finish.
Similar Cocktails
If you enjoy Pineapple Lime Rickey, here are five similar cocktails to try:
Equipment
- Measuring Cup
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tsp sugar optional, depending on your taste and the sweetness of the pineapple
- Club soda or sparkling water to top
- Lime slices and pineapple chunks for garnish
Instructions
Mix the Ingredients:
- In a shaker, combine the gin, pineapple juice, lime juice, and sugar if using. Shake well until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
Prepare the Glass:
- Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.
Combine and Serve:
- Pour the mixture from the shaker over the ice. Top with club soda or sparkling water to your liking.
Garnish and Enjoy:
- Garnish with a slice of lime and a chunk of pineapple on the rim of the glass. Stir gently before drinking.
