The Gin Rickey is a classic mixed drink with dozens of variations. In this video Dave Herlong demonstrates his variation of the Rickey made with absinthe.

 

The Gin Rickey was named after Colonel "Joe" Rickey. Colonel Rickey was a lobbyist who was well known for entertaining congressmen at Shoemaker's in Washington D.C., where this drink was invented.

 

A traditional Rickey is very simple and very refreshing.

 

Dave uses Lucid absinthe in this video to add a bit of complexity but many brands will work. 

 

This drink is made using lime juice. Rather than use lime juice Dave makes the juice fresh by putting two or three lime wedges in a cocktail shaker with some ice and shaking. This muddles the lime and creates the juice that he uses for the drink and also acts as a garnish for the drink.

 

Three Lime Wedges

1 Shot Tanqueray No. TEN

1/2 shot Lucid absinthe

St. Germain

Club soda

 

Three lime wedges into the shaker - Shake to muddle and create lime juice.

Add 

1 Shot Tanquaray Ten (or gin of your choosing)

1/2 Shot Lucid absinthe (Different brands bring different flavors)

 

Now Build in a Highball Glass

Quarter Glass Soda Water

Pour contents of cocktail shaker including ice and Limes

St. Germain

 

Both the absinthe and the Saint Germain are added in small amounts for flavor. The absinthe adds complexity, the St. Germain adds sweetness. Experiments with the amounts to get the perfect drink for your palate.

 

Dave uses Tanquaray Ten for this cocktail because it contains citrus notes.

 

If you are interested in the history of the Rickey here is a link to an interesting article about this drink and cocktails in general from The Washington Post. 

 

We here at Absintheology want to remind you to drink responsibly.