Lime Rickey

By Steve Kilcullen Jump to Recipe

Looking to take a booze break, but still like a fizzy beverage with bite? Or do you prefer yours with gin? Look no further than the Lime Rickey.

If you’ve caught any of my other articles here, you have probably figured out that I’m a big James Bond fan. Ever since my mother forbade me from seeing Octopussy and my father took me anyway, I’ve been hooked. When I was ten, I videotaped Moonraker off of television. That same year I went to Space Camp, the whole time visions of 007 on space shuttles and space stations danced through my brain like a Maurice Binder title sequence as I learned about the real deal. In fact, one of the things that led me to my interest in cocktails and writing about them for Twist & Toast was my love of Bond.

A few weekends ago, my brother and I attended Gatherall. The simplest way to describe this event is by calling it a James Bond convention. But it’s so much more than that, and I wouldn’t refer to it in that way at all. When I think of conventions I picture thousands upon thousands of fans descending upon a hotel’s ballroom, with merchant tables and a lot of pushing and shoving and spending a ton of money.

Gatherall is the antithesis of that experience. It’s so much more familial and intimate, not just because of the amount of people – and there’s quite a fair amount that attend – but the spirit that we all come with. There’s an excitement at meeting like-minded individuals who share the same passion as you. And these new friendships are forged and formed over a fair amount of beer, mojitos and martinis. An entire weekend of Bond, bonding and imbibing leaves one with a very satisfied feeling in the heart and the soul. But the amount of cocktails we all had might call for a tiny little break as we wade back into the waters of everyday life. 

Today’s drink is the kind of beverage that hits that spot, the Lime Rickey. If you’ve ever enjoyed a classic Gin Rickey, you know what kind of refreshing treat you’re in for. The Lime Rickey is often referred to as a “mocktail” or virgin version, and is very easy to make. Fresh lime juice, simple syrup (instead of gin) and club soda work together just fine without any spirits, and if you need to take a booze break after a long weekend of strong tipples, this fizzy and tart non-alcoholic potion is sure to make you smile.

Oftentimes the classic gin-based dram, the Gin Rickey, is referred to as a Lime Rickey. This can cause some confusion, even to me. Which is it? Well, Gin Rickeys can be called Lime Rickeys, mainly because they contain lime juice. But if you’re looking for the virgin version, make sure you double-check to make sure it is. And if you want yours hard, ask for the gin one by name.

What is the Best Alcohol to Use in a Lime Rickey?

When picking out a spirit for your Lime Rickey, you’ll find that you don’t need to… since the virgin recipe doesn’t require any. Freshly squeezed lime juice is the best way to go when mixing this recipe together, but if you opt for an easier method, a bottle of Nellie & Joe’s Key West Lime is often cited as a bartender’s best friend. In terms of club soda, Fever Tree is my favorite, but any brand you prefer will do nicely. If you’re making a Gin Rickey, a top-shelf London Dry won’t let you down, but for something more colorful may I suggest a Hendrick’s Grand Cabaret, which is infused with stone fruits. This has become my favorite gin in the past year.

What kind of glass and garnish is used?

A slender collins or highball glass will keep your ice cubes chilled and solid longer than usual glassware. Garnish with a lime wedge and straw for a little stirring and sipping.

Why is it called a Rickey?

This type of beverage is named after a lobbyist from Washington D.C., named Colonel Joe Rickey. In the 1880s, he requested a cocktail be made for him that included gin or bourbon, lime juice and club soda. The rest, as they say, is history.

Similar Drinks to the Lime Rickey

Taking a break from the hooch? Abstaining from alcohol? Too many tipples at the last party you attended? You don’t feel like drinking, but still feel like mixing something up? Or maybe you’ve taken a long sabbatical and feel like a nice, strong drink. Recipes like the Lime Rickey will serve you well. Twist & Toast has some other tasty beverages that you can enjoy while allowing your mind, body and soul to rest and recharge.

• Disneyland Mint Julep – A booze-free version of the classic cocktail, courtesy of the Happiest Place on Earth.
• Gin Fizz – A smooth and decadent sipper, this frothy and citrusy drink is one of my all-time favorites.
• Jalapeño Paloma Mocktail– Spicy and spirit-free, this grapefruit-flavored favorite will cool you down with a little heat.
• Tom Collins – Another go-to mixture of mine, this fizzy, gin and lemon-tinged treat always hits the spot.