📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Gin
Alcohol 14%
Calories 150 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 7g
Prep time 2 minutes
In the quest for the ultimate refreshment, the Rickey stands tall—a symphony of tart lime, spirited liquor, and effervescent bubbles. Today, we’ll explore this classic cocktail’s storied history, its vibrant taste, and the secrets behind its timeless allure. Let’s embark on this flavorful journey together! ⬇️
History
The Rickey cocktail is a simple, yet storied drink, originally created in Washington D.C. in the 1880s. It was named after Colonel Joe Rickey, a lobbyist who enjoyed this refreshing beverage. The cocktail quickly became a favorite among American politicians.
- The Rickey was initially made with bourbon before becoming popular with gin.
- Colonel Joe Rickey’s favorite hangout, Shoomaker’s bar, is where the drink was first mixed.
- The Rickey is celebrated every July with its own National Rickey Month.
The taste of a Rickey?
A Rickey tastes crisp and refreshing, with a sharp hint of lime cutting through the gentle fizz of carbonated water. It’s a thirst-quenching cocktail that balances sourness and the robust flavor of the spirit.
I personally love drinking Rickeys because they’re incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day.
Interesting facts about Rickey
- The Rickey is often referred to as the official drink of Washington D.C.
- Despite its simplicity, the Rickey was a precursor to many modern citrus-based cocktails.
- It’s a versatile drink, easily adapted to various spirits beyond its traditional gin or bourbon base.
Ingredients
- Gin or Bourbon: 2 oz (60ml)
- Fresh Lime Juice: 0.5 oz (15ml)
- Club Soda: to top up
- Ice: as needed
- Lime Wedge: for garnish
Highball Glass is the best type of glass to use when serving a Rickey because it allows the carbonation to rise and enhances the aroma. Alternatively, a Collins Glass can also be suitable for its similar shape and volume.
Recipe. How to make Rickey
- Fill a Highball Glass with ice.
- Add 2 oz of gin or bourbon.
- Squeeze in 0.5 oz of fresh lime juice and drop the lime shell into the glass.
- Top up with club soda and stir gently.
- Garnish with a lime wedge and serve immediately.
Rickeys can be quite light on calories, especially if you opt for a sugar-free club soda. For an even healthier twist, use natural sweeteners like stevia or skip the sweeteners altogether to let the natural tanginess shine through.
Food Pairings
Certain foods can elevate the taste of a Rickey, creating a harmonious dining experience. Here are some pairings that resonate with the cocktail’s bright and zesty nature.
Grilled Chicken
The Rickey’s acidity is a perfect match for the smoky flavors of grilled chicken, enhancing the meat’s natural juices.
Seafood
Light and fizzy, a Rickey complements the delicate taste of seafood, such as oysters or sushi, without overpowering the subtle flavors.
Spicy Dishes
The refreshing qualities of a Rickey help to balance out the heat from spicy foods, making it a great accompaniment for dishes like tacos.
I really enjoy the taste of Rickeys—the cool mint and zesty lime make it a perfect drink for relaxing after a long week.
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Bartender Advice
- Always use fresh lime juice for the brightest flavor in your Rickey.
- Chill your glass beforehand to keep the drink refreshingly cold.
- Experiment with different spirits to find your personal Rickey twist.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Rickey, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.
What you could change in Rickey
- Lime Juice: Try lemon or grapefruit juice for a different citrus twist.
- Spirit: Swap gin or bourbon with vodka for a smoother taste.
- Sweetener: Add a dash of simple syrup or agave for a hint of sweetness.
Rickey Variations
Gin Basil Rickey
- Ingredients: Gin, fresh basil, lime juice, club soda.
- Recipe: Muddle basil with lime juice before adding gin and topping with club soda.
Cherry Bourbon Rickey
- Ingredients: Bourbon, cherry liqueur, lime juice, club soda.
- Recipe: Add cherry liqueur to the classic recipe for a fruity twist.
Spicy Cucumber Rickey
- Ingredients: Gin, cucumber slices, jalapeño, lime juice, club soda.
- Recipe: Muddle cucumber and jalapeño with lime juice, then add gin and club soda.
For a non-alcoholic version, the Virgin Rickey is just as refreshing. Simply replace the spirit with additional club soda and a splash more lime juice.
Q&A
Can I use bottled lime juice for a Rickey?
Fresh lime juice is key for the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, bottled will do—just know it won’t be quite the same.
Is there a preferred type of bourbon for a Bourbon Rickey?
While any bourbon will work, a smoother, aged bourbon complements the drink’s refreshing nature.
Can Rickeys be batched for parties?
Absolutely! Mix everything but the club soda ahead of time, then top with soda as you serve.
What’s the best way to garnish a Rickey?
A simple lime wedge or wheel is traditional, but feel free to get creative with fresh herbs or fruit.
How can I make my Rickey even more refreshing?
Try adding fresh mint or serving it over crushed ice to up the chill factor.
Are Rickeys suitable for all seasons?
Yes, their refreshing nature makes them perfect for summer, but the versatility of the spirit base allows for cozy winter adaptations too.
