French Gimlet Recipe with True Citrus

Looking for a cocktail that's as fancy as it is simple to make? Say bonjour to the French Gimlet! This classy little number combines the botanical kick of gin, the sweetness of elderflower liqueur, and a refreshing flavor of True Lime. It's the perfect sip for when you want to feel a little ooh la la without spending too much time mixing drinks. Whether you're lounging at home or hosting a soirée, this French Gimlet will be your go-to for effortless elegance in a glass. Cheers to that!

The History of a French Gimlet: A Sophisticated Cocktail with Humble Beginnings

The French Gimlet takes the classic gin gimlet and gives it a chic, Parisian makeover with the addition of elderflower liqueur. Once a drink for the British navy meant to ward off scurvy (thanks to fresh lime juice!), it's now the epitome of elegance, perfect for those happy hour vibes or a casual night in. The bright, botanical notes of gin mixed with the tartness of fresh lime juice make this a refreshing drink you'll want to sip on in style.

The "French" in French Gimlet simply refers to the addition of St-Germain, a floral elderflower liqueur from France, adding a certain je ne sais quoi—making it feel a bit more elegant and luxurious than the traditional gimlet. So, while it's not a historically French cocktail, it's definitely been elevated by a touch of French flair!

Variations on The Classic Gimlet Cocktail

Ready to shake things up? These gimlet variations put a fresh twist on the classic, each with its own unique flair!

• Basil Gimlet: For a fresh, herbaceous twist, add muddled basil to your gimlet. The earthy, aromatic basil flavor pairs beautifully with the gin's botanical flavors, making this a bright and refreshing spin on the classic cocktail.
• Vodka Gimlet: Swap out gin for vodka to create a smoother, more neutral version of the gimlet. The vodka allows the fresh lime juice and any added flavors, like elderflower liqueur, to really shine without the gin's distinctive juniper berries taste.
• Wet French Gimlet: This variation adds simple syrup to the traditional French Gimlet recipe, making it a little sweeter and more indulgent. The syrup balances the tartness of the lime juice and adds extra depth to the floral notes of the elderflower liqueur.

French Gimlet Pairings

The French Gimlet pairs beautifully with light and fresh dishes that complement its bright, floral notes. Here are a few pairing ideas:

1. Cheese & Charcuterie Board: Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese, paired with cured meats and fresh fruits like figs or grapes, enhance the gin's botanicals and the elderflower's sweetness.
2. Grilled Seafood: Grilled shrimp or seared scallops match perfectly with the citrusy zing of lime flavor.
3. Light Salads: A fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette or a side of arugula with shaved Parmesan balances the cocktail's crispness.
4. Herb-Crusted Chicken: Simple herb-crusted or roasted chicken will not overpower the cocktail and complement its clean, botanical flavor.
5. Macarons or Lemon Tart: For dessert, a light, delicate macaron or a lemon tart mirrors the citrus elements and rounds out the meal with a hint of sweetness.

• Impress Your Guests with This Chic DrinkFresh and Floral: The elderflower liqueur adds a sweet, floral touch that pairs beautifully with the zesty lime flavor.
• Simple to Make: Just a few ingredients and a quick shake—that's all it takes to create this delicate cocktail. We recommend using True Lime over fresh lime juice so you can save time cutting, squeezing, and cleaning, AND you don't have to worry about the short shelf life of Lime.
• Perfect Balance: The botanical notes of gin, the subtle floral sweetness, and the citrusy brightness of True Lime make this drink light, refreshing, and utterly sippable!
• Win with the gin: Since gin is ⅓ of this recipe, using a quality gin can make all the difference. We recommend: Hendrick's Gin, Bombay Saffire, Beefeater London Dry Gin, and The Botanist.

Impress Your Guests with This Chic Drink

• Fresh and Floral: The elderflower liqueur adds a sweet, floral touch that pairs beautifully with the zesty lime flavor.
• Simple to Make: Just a few ingredients and a quick shake—that's all it takes to create this delicate cocktail. We recommend using True Lime over fresh lime juice so you can save time cutting, squeezing, and cleaning, AND you don't have to worry about the short shelf life of Lime.
• Perfect Balance: The botanical notes of gin, the subtle floral sweetness, and the citrusy brightness of True Lime make this drink light, refreshing, and utterly sippable!
• Win with the gin: Since gin is ⅓ of this recipe, using a quality gin can make all the difference. We recommend: Hendrick's Gin, Bombay Saffire, Beefeater London Dry Gin, and The Botanist.

Loving The French Cocktails?

If the French Gimlet wins you over; you'll love the French 75! Simply substitute True Lime for True Lemon, mix in your favorite gin, and top it off with champagne for a bubbly, citrusy twist that's as elegant as it is refreshing. Cheers!