What Is a Gimlet, and Where Did It Come From?

Let’s time travel for a second. The original gimlet is believed to date back to the British Navy in the 19th century. Sailors mixed gin with lime juice to prevent scurvy—and hey, they accidentally created a legendary cocktail. The classic formula? Just gin and lime cordial. Over time, mixologists upgraded it with fresh lime juice and simple syrup, giving the drink a cleaner, more vibrant flavor profile.So how did mezcal crash this citrusy party? Enter: flavor. Mezcal’s smoky backbone transforms the traditional gimlet into something layered, punchy, and unforgettable. The gin version? It’s a polite handshake. The Mezcalum Gimlet? A bold embrace.

Why Use Mezcalum in Your Gimlet?

Let’s be real—you could make a mezcal gimlet with any mezcal, but why settle for less when you can pour Mezcalum? We’re not just another bottle on the shelf. We’re heritage in a glass.Mezcalum is born in Oaxaca, Mexico, crafted with Espadin and the wild, rare Cuishe agave—grown in arid regions between 750 and 2,000 meters above sea level. These agaves take 6 to 12 years to mature, and our Maestro Mezcalero Carlos Méndez Blas harvests them at their peak, using generations-old techniques passed down in his family.With zero carbs, zero sugar, zero additives, and an all-natural process that respects the land and its people, Mezcalum is vegan, non-GMO, and nothing short of exceptional. You can taste the craftsmanship in every pour. Learn more about our artisanal process at mezcalum.com.In a gimlet, Mezcalum’s clean smokiness doesn’t overpower—it elevates. It plays off the lime’s sharpness and simple syrup’s sweetness with elegance and edge.

Is the Mezcal Gimlet the Right Drink for You?

If you like your cocktails simple but flavorful, if you’re someone who believes less is more (as long as it’s premium), and if you crave that perfect balance between zest and fire, this is your drink.Whether it’s a happy hour flex, a dinner party go-to, or your new favorite nightcap, the Mezcal Gimlet is a minimal-effort, maximum-flavor masterpiece.

Can You Customize the Mezcal Gimlet?

Absolutely. The basic formula is strong, but there’s room to riff. Want it earthier? Use Mezcalum Cuishe. Prefer a touch of herbal depth? Muddle in some fresh basil or cilantro. Feeling spicy? Add a slice of jalapeño to the shaker before you shake it up.However you remix it, make sure it starts with Mezcalum. That’s the soul of the cocktail.

Ready to Try It?

You can’t fake great mezcal—and you definitely can’t fake a great gimlet. With Mezcalum, you’re getting centuries of tradition distilled into every sip. Shop our bottles and explore more recipes at mezcalum.com or dive deeper into the magic behind our spirits here.

FAQ

Q: What’s the difference between a mezcal gimlet and a margarita? A margarita typically uses tequila, lime juice, and triple sec, often with salt on the rim. A mezcal gimlet is simpler—just mezcal, lime juice, and syrup—and lets the mezcal shine without distraction.

Q: Can I batch mezcal gimlets for a party? Yes! Just scale the ingredients and mix everything in advance. Store in a sealed container in the fridge, shake with ice before serving, and pour into chilled glasses.

Q: Which Mezcalum should I use—Espadin or Cuishe?Both work beautifully, but if you want something more delicate and sweet, go with Espadin. For a wilder, more complex sip, Cuishe is your move.

Q: Can I use agave syrup instead of simple syrup? Sure! Agave adds a more earthy sweetness and still keeps the recipe natural. Just dial the amount down slightly since it’s sweeter than simple syrup.