Cherry Lime Rickey recipe
A vibrant, tart riff on the classic highball combining crisp gin, fresh lime, and aromatic cherry.
Method: Build ·
Glass: Highball glass ·
Time: 3 min ·
Difficulty: Beginner ·
Family: The Highball Family
Ingredients
- 2 oz Dry Gin (London dry or botanical)
- 0.75 oz Fresh Lime Juice (Juiced fresh)
- 0.5 oz Cherry Syrup (Rich or standard)
- 4 oz Club Soda (Chilled, top up)
How to make a Cherry Lime Rickey
- Fill a highball glass with fresh ice cubes to chill the glassware.
- Add the dry gin, fresh lime juice, and cherry syrup directly into the glass.
- Top with chilled club soda and gently stir from bottom to top to combine ingredients.
- Garnish with a fresh lime wheel and skewered dark cherries on the rim.
Garnish
Lime wheel and fresh dark cherries
Pro tip
Express the oils of a fresh lime peel over the rim before serving to enhance the aromatic profile without adding extra sweetness.
History of the Cherry Lime Rickey
The Rickey originated in Washington, D.C., during the 1880s at Shoomaker's Saloon, invented by lobbyist Colonel Joe Rickey—originally concocted with bourbon before gin took over as the dominant base. The cherry-lime variation emerged later as a popular refreshment bridging classic saloon culture and American soda fountain traditions.
Flavour profile
Tart, Refreshing, Fruity, Effervescent
Variations
- Bourbon Cherry Rickey — Substitute bourbon for gin for a richer, oak-forward profile.
- Spicy Cherry Rickey — Muddle two slices of fresh jalapeño with the cherry syrup before building.
- Cherry Lime Fizz — Add 0.5 oz heavy cream and shake before topping with soda for a velvety texture.
Practise making the Cherry Lime Rickey in the free Virtual Bar game.