12 Days of Drinkmas 🌲 Day 4: Rosemary Gimlet

The Gimlet has roots in British naval history, originally created as a practical solution rather than a pleasure-driven cocktail. Lime juice was issued to sailors to prevent scurvy, while gin made it more palatable. Over time, what began as function evolved into one of the cleanest and most recognisable sour-style cocktails. Its reputation today rests on clarity, sharpness, and restraint; nothing excessive, nothing hidden.

This Rosemary Gimlet respects that heritage while shifting the drink firmly into a winter setting. Rosemary and pine introduce forest-like aromatics that mirror cold-weather landscapes, festive greenery, and Christmas wreaths. The gin remains the anchor, but the herbal syrup adds depth and seasonal identity without muddying the drink’s clean profile. It’s still a Gimlet…just dressed for December.

Ingredients

• 60ml Gin

• 25ml Lime Juice

• 20ml Pine Rosemary Syrup (homemade)

Method

1. Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice.

2. Shake until well chilled.

3. Fine strain into a chilled coupe.

4. Garnish with fresh rosemary.

Moe’s Tip

Overcooked rosemary turns bitter fast! Keep syrup infusions short and controlled.