How To Make A Gin Rickey

The Gin Rickey has been around for over 100 years, and it’s an anomaly in the cocktail world. Why? Because there’s no sugar whatsoever. Actually, that’s a lie. Lime juice has some sugar, but not a lot. Consequently, this cocktail is crisp and refreshing, and it’s exactly the kind of thing you can drink all day. It’s also one of the tartest drinks out there, and we’re pretty sure you could make one in your sleep.

How It Tastes: Crisp, sour, like the world’s most refreshing gin cocktail

Drink If You Like:Gimlets, Gin & Tonics

photo credit: Emily Schindler

The Gin Rickey

You’ll Need:

Makes one Gin Rickey

• Ice

• Highball

• 2 ounces gin

• .75 ounce lime juice

• 5 ounces sparkling water

Step One: Lime Juice

To start things off, you’ll need to find a lime. They look sort of like lemons, except they’re smaller and green, and when you squeeze one, juice comes out. Add .75 ounces of that juice to a highball filled to the rim with ice.

Step Two: Gin (or Vodka or Tequila)

Yes, we know this cocktail is called a Gin Rickey, but you can also use vodka if you want. Or even tequila. Just be sure to adjust the name accordingly, if you decide to go around telling people what you’re drinking. Pour 2 ounces gin, vodka, or tequila into your highball.

Step Three: Sparkling Water

Finally, top your drink off with sparkling water. It should be around 4 ounces, but no need to measure. Garnish with a lime wheel, and brace yourself for a cold, tart drink that somehow gets better every time you make it.