Gibson
The Gibson is a timeless classic cocktail, often seen as a close relative to the Martini, distinguished primarily by its unique garnish: a pickled cocktail onion instead of an olive or lemon twist. This simple yet elegant drink combines gin and dry vermouth for a crisp, savory, and aromatic experience. Its origins are debated, with stories attributing it to businessman Walter D.K. Gibson or illustrator Charles Dana Gibson. Regardless of its history, the Gibson remains a sophisticated choice for those who appreciate a dry, spirit-forward cocktail with a subtle umami note from the onion. Perfect for pre-dinner drinks or any occasion calling for a refined classic.
Ingredients
- 6 cl gin
- 1 cl Martini Bianco
- 1 piece olive
Accessories
- 1 shaker
- 1 strainer
- 1 Martini glass
Instructions
Chill your Martini glass in the freezer or by filling it with ice water.
Fill a mixing glass or shaker tin with ice cubes.
Pour the gin and dry vermouth over the ice.
Stir well for about 30 seconds until thoroughly chilled. Do not shake.
Discard the ice from the chilled Martini glass.
Strain the mixture from the mixing glass into the chilled Martini glass.
Garnish with one or two cocktail onions on a pick.
Trivia
- What is a Gibson cocktail?
A Gibson cocktail is a classic mixed drink made with gin and dry vermouth, essentially a Martini variation. Its defining characteristic is the garnish: a pickled cocktail onion instead of the traditional olive or lemon twist.
- What is the difference between a Gibson and a Martini?
The primary difference lies in the garnish. A traditional Martini is garnished with an olive or a lemon twist, while a Gibson is always garnished with one or more cocktail onions. The base ingredients (gin and dry vermouth) are typically the same.
- How do you make a Gibson cocktail?
To make a Gibson, you stir gin and dry vermouth with ice until well-chilled. Then, strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass (usually a Martini or coupe glass) and garnish with a pickled cocktail onion.
- What does a Gibson cocktail taste like?
A Gibson tastes very similar to a dry Martini – crisp, clean, and spirit-forward with botanical notes from the gin and herbal undertones from the vermouth. The cocktail onion adds a distinct, subtle savory or umami element that sets it apart.
- What type of gin is best for a Gibson?
A classic London Dry gin is traditionally preferred for a Gibson, as its juniper-forward profile complements the dry vermouth and savory onion. However, feel free to experiment with other gin styles based on your preference.
- Why is it called a Gibson cocktail?
The exact origin is unclear, but popular theories attribute the name to either American diplomat and businessman Walter D.K. Gibson, who supposedly preferred an onion in his Martini, or to illustrator Charles Dana Gibson, creator of the 'Gibson Girl', who may have requested the garnish.
- Should a Gibson be shaken or stirred?
Like a traditional Martini, a Gibson should be stirred, not shaken. Stirring chills the drink effectively while maintaining its clarity and smooth texture. Shaking can introduce too much air and potentially dilute the drink excessively.