Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic13.2% ABV3 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Easyshaken drink
Why: 3 ingredients, shaken drink, requires shaker
Best for: Seafood, Citrus Based Food, Aperitif
Ingredients & Tools
BaseModifierCitrus
- 4 clLime JuiceCitrus
- 2 clGinBase
- 4 clAperolModifier
Tools:shaker
How to Make It
- Shake with ice and strain into cocktail glass.ShakeShaking chills, dilutes and adds texture.
Best For
Food Pairings
Diet & Lifestyle
Gluten-FreeVegetarian
Make it your way
Adjust this drink
Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the sugarCompare with drinks that use less estimated sugar per serve.Match it with foodFind food pairings that complement the flavors in this drink.
Swap notes
Base spiritGin swaps are risky — botanicals vary wildly. London Dry is drier and more juniper-forward; Old Tom is sweeter; sloe gin adds fruit. If you swap, stay within the same style and taste as you go.CitrusLemon juice can replace lime but it is sharper and less floral — the drink will taste brighter and slightly more tart. Grapefruit juice works if you want something more bitter. Whichever you use, add a little at a time and taste as you go.
Rate this recipe
Frequently asked questions
- What is a Imperial Cocktail?
- The Imperial Cocktail is a cocktail made with 3 ingredients, traditionally served in a Cocktail Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 13.2%. A standard serving contains approximately 128 calories.
- What does a Imperial Cocktail taste like?
- Imperial Cocktail has a flavour profile featuring Citrus, Sweet, Aperitif, Bitter. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a Imperial Cocktail?
- Imperial Cocktail pairs well with Seafood, Citrus Based Food, Herbal Food. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a Imperial Cocktail?
- The Imperial Cocktail has an ABV of approximately 13.2%. That's approximately 0.74 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 128 calories, 7.9g sugar, 12.2g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a Imperial Cocktail typically served?
- Imperial Cocktail is a popular choice for Aperitif, Happy Hour. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a Imperial Cocktail?
- If you enjoy Imperial Cocktail, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
- Can I make a Imperial Cocktail at home?
- Yes. The Imperial Cocktail uses 3 ingredients, making it easy to prepare at home. You will need a Cocktail Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
- How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
- Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of Imperial Cocktail with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.