Yuzu Gimlet

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If you enjoy Japanese vodka, the Yuzu Gimlet is a cocktail worth trying. It combines the tartness of yuzu juice with the smooth taste of Haku Vodka, making it a hit with citrus fans. Ideal for warm evenings or special occasions, it pairs well with dishes like togarashi fries, tofu katsu burgers, or vegetable tempura. Try this refreshing yuzu cocktail this summer for a delightful but different citrus punch.

yuzu cocktail in a crystal martini glass next to a bottle of Haku Vodka on a vintage tray

What is a Yuzu Gimlet?

The Yuzu Gimlet is a Japanese cocktail made with Haku Vodka, Tosa Yuzu Juice, and simple syrup. We're going to chill a martini glass, shake the main ingredients in a cocktail shaker, sieve into your glass and garnish with citrus. Simple yet sophisticated.

a close up birdseye view of a yuzu coctail in a martini glass next to a bottle of Haku vodka

Why Haku Vodka & Tosa Yuzu Juice?

Haku Vodka is a Japanese craft vodka distilled from 100% Japanese rice and uniquely charcoal-filtered to create an unbelievably smooth finish. Its light, refined flavors are the perfect base for this cocktail.

Meanwhile, Tosa Yuzu Juice is a premium yuzu juice renowned for its vibrant, tangy taste. It captures the very essence of Japan's unique citrus fruit, elevating this cocktail to the next level.

Jump to:

What is a Yuzu Gimlet?
Why Haku Vodka & Tosa Yuzu Juice?
Ingredients
Instructions
3 Pro Tips for the Perfect Japanese Cocktail
Substitutions
Variations
Equipment
Storage
Top Tip
FAQ
Related
Pairing
📖 Recipe

Ingredients

For the Cocktail

50ml Haku Vodka
25ml yuzu juice (preferably Tosa Yuzu Juice for its rich, authentic flavor)
20ml simple syrup
~ 3 cups of Ice

For Garnish

A slim round of lime
Mint (optional)

Instructions

1. Fill the cocktail shaker with fresh ice.

vodka being poured into a measuring jigger

2. Add your Haku vodka, yuzu juice and syrup.

Ingredients being shaken in a metal cocktail shaker

3. Lid and shake vigorously for 10 seconds or so.

Cocktail being poured into a chilled martini glass

4. Sieve using your cocktail strainer into a chilled martini glass.

A thinly sliced round of lime being placed on top of the cocktail

5. Cut a slim lime round and float on top.

a bridseye view of a yuzu cocktail in a martini glass on a vintage tray next to a bottle of haku vodka

6. Serve straight away and drink swiftly whilst it's cold.

3 Pro Tips for the Perfect Japanese Cocktail

Chill Your Glass - Prevent dilution by serving your gimlet in a frosty martini glass.
Use Fresh Ice - Fresh, clean ice makes all the difference in flavor and texture.
Shake Thoroughly - Shaking hard ensures the ingredients emulsify, creating a silky, frothy texture.

yuzu gimlet in a chilled martini glass on a tray next to a bottle of haku vodka and small side plate of crackers

Substitutions

Vodka Alternatives: If Haku Vodka isn't available, replace it with another high-quality vodka.
Yuzu Juice Swap: Can't find yuzu? Substitute it with Meyer lemon or a mix of lime and orange juices for a similar tangy blend.

Variations

Sparkling Yuzu Gimlet: Top with sparkling water for a bubbly version.
Spicy Kick: Add a slice of muddled, fresh jalapeño for a spicy twist.
Herbal Infusion: Shake with a sprig of fresh thyme for an aromatic touch.

Equipment

To make this cocktail you'll need the following pieces of equipment:

Cocktail making kit (this includes a measuring jigger, shaker and strainer).
Martini glass - It's essential to choose the right-sized glass to avoid wastage and ensure your cocktail looks visually appealing.

Storage

This cocktail is best served fresh, but you can pre-mix the vodka, yuzu juice, and simple syrup and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake your yuzu cocktail with ice before serving.

Top Tip

For the full Japanese cocktail experience, serve your Yuzu Gimlet on a decorative tray with small dishes of crackers or rice snacks. It adds elegance and enhances the overall presentation.