Cocktail
Gibson
How to make a Gibson - the dry gin cocktail, the Martini's sibling, garnished with a cocktail onion instead of an olive. A classic recipe to mix.
4 minPrep time
easyDifficulty
Martini glassGlass
1Serving(s)
The Gibson is the savoury sibling of the Martini: the same dry build of gin and vermouth, but with a pickled cocktail onion instead of the olive as garnish. This small change lends the drink a subtly piquant note. A purist classic for lovers of clear, spirit-forward cocktails.
Instructions
- Add gin and dry vermouth to the mixing glass.
- Add plenty of ice.
- Stir cold for about 20 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a cocktail onion and serve.
Garnish: Cocktail onion
Pro tip: Use a well-chilled glass and stir rather than shake, so the Gibson stays crystal clear and silky - shaken it would turn cloudy and watery.
Frequently asked questions
What sets the Gibson apart from the Martini?
The Gibson is essentially a dry Martini, but instead of an olive or lemon twist it is garnished with a pickled cocktail onion. This gives it a subtly savoury note.
Where does the cocktail onion garnish come from?
The garnish is said to trace back to a New York businessman named Gibson, who wanted to set his drink apart from those of his dining companions.
How dry should a Gibson be?
Classically it is very dry with only a little vermouth. Those who prefer it less sharp can raise the vermouth slightly or just rinse the glass with it.
Ingredients
- Gin6 cl
- Dry vermouth (Vermouth Dry)1 cl
- Cocktail onion1 piece
- Ice cubesas needed
