Grapefruit Sage Gimlet

A sophisticated winter twist on the classic gimlet that marries bright citrus with aromatic sage, creating a perfectly balanced seasonal cocktail. The fresh grapefruit adds complex bitter notes while garden-fresh sage provides an earthy depth that makes this drink uniquely suited for the colder months.

Ingredients

For the Cocktail

  • 2 oz London Dry gin

  • 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice

  • 0.5 oz sage simple syrup

  • 0.25 oz fresh lime juice

  • Grapefruit twist and fresh sage leaf for garnish

For the Sage Simple Syrup

  • 1 cup water

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 4 fresh sage leaves

Instructions

Prepare the Sage Simple Syrup

  1. In a small saucepan, combine water and sugar

  2. Heat over medium, stirring until sugar dissolves completely

  3. Add sage leaves and remove from heat

  4. Let steep for 10 minutes

  5. Strain into a clean bottle

  6. Refrigerate until needed (keeps for 2 weeks)

Make the Cocktail

  1. Fill your cocktail shaker with ice

  2. Add gin, fresh grapefruit juice, sage simple syrup, and lime juice

  3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds until well chilled

  4. Double strain into a chilled coupe glass

  5. Express grapefruit twist over cocktail and rub around rim

  6. Garnish with grapefruit twist and fresh sage leaf

Recipe Notes

  • Use fresh ruby red grapefruit for best results

  • Ensure all ingredients are properly chilled

  • Can be served on the rocks in a rocks glass if preferred

  • When making the syrup, don't over-steep the sage as it can become bitter

  • For best presentation, ensure garnish is fresh and aromatic