Cranberry Gin(ger) Rickey Cocktail Recipe: A Holiday Twist on a Classic

The Gin Rickey, a simple yet elegant cocktail, has captivated palates for over a century. Its refreshing blend of gin, lime juice, and soda water has made it a timeless classic. This cocktail comes in a number of variations, including one of our favorites, the Gin(ger) Rickey.

The Origins of the Gin Rickey

One popular legend attributes the creation of the Gin Rickey to a bartender named Joe Rickey. This version of the origin story seems to based in a bit of confusion where the bartender and the patron have been merged into a single person. The most widely recognized theory suggests that the cocktail originated in Washington, D.C., during the late 19th or early 20th century. Most sources point to the preferences a man named Colonel Joseph Rickey, a prominent lobbyist in the city, as the figure behind this drink which would eventually bear his name.

As the story goes, Colonel Rickey was visiting a local Washington, D.C. bar called Shoomaker’s. He asked bartender George Williamson to add a bit of lime to his preferred highball, a bourbon and soda water.

The Rickey, as it came be known, became very popular among other lobbyists and patrons in Washington, D.C. The cocktail continued to evolve based on preferences of other patrons, with gin replacing bourbon as the preferred spirit. The Gin Rickey was born. This simple twist on the original pairs the tart punch of lime with the juniper and other botanicals found in gin while the soda provides a crisp balance. Its simplicity and refreshing taste made it a favorite among those who preferred a less sweet and more sophisticated cocktail.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

• Gin: The spirit of choice for the Gin Rickey, gin adds a complex and botanical flavor profile.
• Lime Juice: Provides acidity and a bright citrusy flavor, balancing the gin’s botanical notes.
• Soda Water: Adds effervescence and carbonation, making the drink refreshing and easy to drink.

The Art of the Perfect Gin Rickey

While the Gin Rickey is a straightforward cocktail, there are a few key factors to consider when crafting the perfect drink:

1. Quality Ingredients:
   • Gin: Opt for a high-quality gin with a balanced flavor profile. Classic London Dry gins or contemporary craft gins can work well.
   • Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential for optimal flavor.
   • Soda Water: Use high-quality soda water with a clean, crisp taste.
2. Proper Glassware:
   • A Collins glass is the traditional choice for a Gin Rickey. Its tall and slender shape allows the drink to be properly chilled and aerated.
3. Mixing Technique:
   • The Gin Rickey is typically served “up,” meaning it’s stirred with ice and strained into a chilled glass.
   • However, it can also be served “on the rocks” with ice cubes.
4. Garnish:
   • A simple lime wheel or a sprig of fresh mint can be used to garnish the drink.

Our Featured Drink

The Gin(ger) Rickey is a great take on the classic Gin Rickey. The inclusion of cranberry makes it a great option for a festive winter holiday drink and the ginger beer provides the effervescence with additional “warm” flavors that some many great cocktails feature in colder months.

Gin(ger) Rickey Cocktail Recipe: A Holiday Twist on a Classic

Difficulty: 1

Servings

1

servings

Total time

2

minutes

The Gin(ger) Rickey is a great take on the classic Gin Rickey. The inclusion of cranberry makes it a great option for a festive winter holiday drink and the ginger beer provides the effervescence with additional “warm” flavors that some many great cocktails feature in colder months.

Ingredients

• 2 oz. dry gin

• 1.5 oz. cranberry juice

• Ginger beer

• Cranberries

• Rosemary sprig

Directions

• Add gin and cranberry juice to a shaker with ice.
• Shake until well mixed and chilled.
• Strain into a Collins glass.
• Add ginger beer to taste.
• Garnish with cranberries and rosemary sprig.

Other Variations on the Classic

While the classic Gin Rickey is a beloved drink, there are a many creative variations that you can try:

• The Rickey: This versatile cocktail can be made with other spirits, such as vodka or the original, bourbon.
• The Tequila Rickey: A refreshing summer drink made with tequila, lime juice, and soda water.
• The Rum Rickey: A tropical twist on the classic, made with rum, lime juice, and soda water.

Whether you prefer the classic Gin Rickey or one of its many variations, this timeless cocktail is sure to please. Its simplicity, refreshing taste, and versatility have made it a beloved drink for generations.

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