The Rosemary Gin Gimlet remains a Gimlet: London Dry Gin, lime, sugar – the rosemary comes in as an aromatic edge. Resinous, sour, clear. The syrup should be homemade so the herb doesn’t smell like perfume but works as a contrast to the acidity. A drink that shows how well coniferous herbs and juniper go together.
Here’s what you need for the Rosemary Gin Gimlet
5 cl London Dry Gin
2 cl lime juice
1.5 cl rosemary syrup or simple syrup plus sprig
Garnish: rosemary
What matters
Make rosemary syrup yourself: boil 100 g sugar, 100 ml water, add two rosemary sprigs and remove from heat. Let steep for ten minutes, then strain. Letting it steep longer makes the syrup bitter. Store-bought rosemary syrup is often too intense and smells like air freshener. If you don’t have syrup, you can use simple syrup and briefly shake a rosemary sprig in the shaker – this gives subtle herbal notes without overpowering.
Variations
- Classic Gimlet — No rosemary, just gin, lime and simple syrup.
- Thyme Gimlet — Use thyme syrup instead of rosemary – milder, more floral.
- With basil — Use basil syrup instead of rosemary – sweeter, greener, less resinous.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I top the drink up with tonic?
Then it becomes a Gin Tonic with rosemary. The Gimlet stays short and without soda – that’s the principle.
Which gin works best?
A classic London Dry Gin with juniper. Too many botanicals in the gin will overpower the rosemary.
Can I use fresh rosemary instead of syrup?
Yes, briefly shake a sprig in the shaker. This gives less sweetness but subtle herbal notes.
