The Rickey is a classic highball cocktail that is simple yet delicious. This refreshing drink has been around since the late 19th century and has stood the test of time! The Rickey was originally created with bourbon in Washington, D.C. at Shoomaker's bar by bartender George A. It is said to have been named after Joe Rickey, a Democratic lobbyist living in Washington, D.C., during the late 19th century.
This easy-to-make cocktail consists of just three ingredients: gin or bourbon, lime juice and carbonated water. Traditionally no sugar is added to the rickey, but some modern recipes add a touch of sweetness for balance. The drink can be served over ice or shaken with ice and then strained into a glass – ether way it's sure to be refreshing!
The Rickey is great for any occasion as it's not too sweet nor too strong; its light flavor profile makes it perfect as an aperitif or after-dinner drink. To make your own rickey at home you will need: 2 ounces gin or bourbon, 1 ounce fresh lime juice and 4 ounces of sparkling water or club soda. Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice and shake vigorously; strain into a glass filled with fresh ice and garnish with a lime wedge if desired. Enjoy!
Whether you're looking for an easy yet sophisticated cocktail for your next gathering or just want to enjoy something special on your own, give the Rickey a try – you won't regret it!
What Makes a Drink a Rickey?
A rickey is a classic highball cocktail that can be made from either gin or bourbon, lime juice, and carbonated water. It originated in the late 1800s at Shoomaker's bar in Washington, D.C., and was invented by bartender George A. Unlike many other cocktails, the rickey does not involve any added sugar and is insead characterized by its simplicity and refreshing nature. The combination of gin or bourbon with lime juice creates a sour and tart flavor, while the sparkling water makes it light and refreshing. The rickey is a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed today for its distinctive flavor and easy preparation.
What is the Meaning of ‘Rickey' in a Drink?
A Rickey is a type of mixed drink, usually made with liquor (such as gin or vodka), lime juice, sugar, and soda water. It can also be made without liquor as an alcohol-free version. The drink is thought to be named after Colonel Joseph “Joe” Rickey, a Washington lobbyist in the late 19th century who was known for his frequent consumption of the beverage. Rickeys typically have a tart flavor and are oftn served over crushed ice.
The Origin of the Name ‘Gin Rickey'
The Gin Rickey, a classic highball cocktail, got its name from Washington lobbyist Joe Rickey. Joe was knon for his love of zero-sugar drinks and his favorite drink was a combination of bourbon and carbonated water. One night in a bar, he asked the bartender to replace the bourbon with gin in his usual drink, and thus the Gin Rickey was born. The original recipe calls for two ounces of gin, half an ounce of lime juice, and soda water over ice. The lime juice is meant to add a hint of sweetness to balance out the dryness of the gin. Many bartenders now add sugar syrup or simple syrup to make it a little sweeter.
Conclusion
The Rickey is a classic highball with a long history. It was first created in the 1880s by Colonel Joe Rickey and the bartender of Shoomaker's bar in Washington, D.C., and has since beome a popular cocktail across the globe. The classic Rickey is made with gin or bourbon, lime juice and carbonated water, without any added sugar. Its refreshing flavor has stood the test of time, making it one of the most beloved cocktails in history.
