With so many complex flavors and botanicals of its own, gin can become a great cocktail with minimal effort and a short shopping list. Even if you’re used to mixing G&Ts or Martinis, it’s easy to branch out of your comfort zone and try something new with this earthy spirit. Here, the seven best gin cocktails that only require three ingredients.
Not only is this bittersweet classic just three ingredients, but it calls for equal parts of each one. This makes mixing up a perfectly balanced blend of gin, sweet vermouth and Campari a snap—and nearly foolproof.
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One of our favorite fruit-tinis, the Pomegranate Martini isn’t as sweet as its pink hue would suggest. The simple combo of gin, pomegranate juice and lemon juice is as tart as it is refreshing.
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This Prohibition-era cocktail arose from the tradition of sweetening illegal bathtub gin with honey. The pairing—plus a little lemon juice—tastes even better today, mixed with gin that's been made by the pros (or at home, if you’re so inclined).
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Instead of a watery, bruised Martini that’s been shaken not stirred, drink like James Bond at his best with one of his favorite cocktails, the Vesper. With its smooth name and smoother taste, the Vesper combines gin, vodka and Kina Lillet, a sadly discontinued liqueur that can be replaced with Cocchi Americano.
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If you're ready to take your Martini to the next bitter level, stir up a tin of Hanky Pankys. Gin, sweet vermouth and pungent Fernet Branca come together for a cocktail that’s both a strong alternative for Martini drinkers and a sippable gateway to the world of fernet.
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Even easier to make than a Gin and Tonic, the Gin Rickey requires only gin, club soda and limes. It’s thirst quenching and far too easy to drink, and it makes for a great dance club order when the tonic water quality is questionable.
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If you're the type to fish olives out of the jar as a late-night snack, this is the cocktail for you. Savory, salty and briny, a Dirty Martini—gin, dry vermouth and olive brine—is the perfect stand-in for a real dinner. If that doesn't float your boat, try other three-ingredient Martini variations, like the 50-50 Martini or a Perfect Martini.
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