History & Heritage
“The Rosemary Gibson is a contemporary variation of the classic Gibson cocktail, which was created in the 1890s by Walter D.K. Gibson at San Francisco's Bohemian Club. While the original Gibson distinguished itself from the Martini with its pickled pearl onion garnish, the Rosemary Gibson represents the modern craft cocktail movement's approach to classic variations. The addition of rosemary, either as a garnish or infused into the vermouth, adds an aromatic herbal dimension that complements the savory onion character while maintaining the sophisticated, dry profile that makes the Gibson family special.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Place a Nick & Nora or coupe glass in freezer for at least 15 minutes
Fill mixing glass two-thirds full with high-quality, clear ice cubes
Add gin, dry vermouth, and onion brine to mixing glass
Stir briskly and smoothly for 20-25 seconds until well-frosted
Strain into the pre-chilled glass using a Julep or Hawthorne strainer
Skewer 1-3 high-quality pickled pearl onions on a cocktail pick
Gently slap fresh rosemary sprig to release oils and add to glass
Glassware
Served up in a chilled Nick & Nora or coupe glass
Garnish
1-3 high-quality, crisp onions skewered on a cocktail pick
Gently slap to release aromatic oils
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
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Sour
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Bitter
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Strong
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Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Always store opened vermouth in the refrigerator
Use high-quality, crisp pickled onions that snap when bitten
Gently bruise the rosemary to release essential oils without breaking it
Pre-chill glassware for at least 15 minutes for optimal temperature
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Rosemary Gibson.
Rosemary-Infused Vermouth
Infuse the dry vermouth with rosemary for several hours before use.
Changes
Vodka Rosemary Gibson
Substitute premium vodka for gin for a cleaner, neutral base.
Changes
Rosemary Gibson with Charred Onion Vermouth
Modern interpretation with vermouth infused with charred onion and rosemary.
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Dirty Gibson
A savory martini twist—gin and dry vermouth seasoned with cocktail onion brine and garnished with a pearl onion.
Obituary Cocktail
A potent and aromatic spin on the classic Gin Martini, distinguished by a haunting whisper of absinthe. Born in New Orleans, this cocktail offers complex, herbaceous, and licorice-tinged flavors.
Reverse Vesper
A modern, vodka-forward interpretation of the classic Vesper Martini. By inverting the primary proportions of gin and vodka, this variation shifts the cocktail's character from a juniper-led powerhouse to a smoother, more subtle drink.