Ingredients
Ice cubes
2 oz. London Dry gin
1/2 oz. fresh lime juice
Club soda, for topping
Pinch of kosher salt (optional)
Lime wedge or wheel, for serving
Preparation
Invented in the mid-1880s in Washington, DC, this classic drink has woven itself into the city’s fabric, earning the distinction of being Washington’s native cocktail. It was allegedly inspired by a conversation at the historic bar Shoomaker’s between bartender George Williamson and lobbyist Col. Joseph Rickey about a popular Caribbean drink that combined rum, lime, and sugar (shoutout to the daiquiri!). They opted for whiskey instead of rum, removed the sugar, and topped it with club soda to make the first iteration of the rickey. As gin rose to popularity, the drink came to feature the floral spirit, soon surpassing the original rickey in popularity. A rickey is simply poured over ice and enjoyed, making this low-lift, refreshing cocktail essential for surviving a summer heatwave. A true gin rickey is all about balancing tart lime with herby, floral gin to create a perfectly balanced drink. That said, it doesn’t need sugar, but you can add a splash of simple syrup if you’re in the mood for something sweet. If you’re looking for lemon instead of lime, try a Tom Collins. Have you made this yet? Let us know how it went in the comments below!
