GIN BUCK

The Gin Buck: The 1890s Ginger Beer Highball That Never Went Out of Style

The Buck family of cocktails emerged in American bars during the 1890s, with the Gin Buck being one of the most popular variations. Bucks combine a base spirit with ginger beer and fresh citrus, typically lime, creating a simple but flavorful highball. The category likely took its name from the kick provided by the spicy ginger beer.

While the Moscow Mule, created in the 1940s, is the most famous Buck today, the Gin Buck predates it by decades and follows the same essential formula. The drink was popular in bars throughout the late 1800s and early 1900s as a refreshing, easy-to-make highball.

What makes the Gin Buck work is the interplay between gin's botanicals and ginger beer's spicy warmth. The lime juice adds tartness that balances the ginger beer's sweetness while brightening the overall flavor profile.

RECIPE:

2 oz gin

½ oz fresh lime juice

4-5 oz ginger beer

Lime wedge for garnish

Method:

1. Fill highball glass with ice

2. Add gin and lime juice

3. Top with ginger beer

4. Stir gently to combine

5. Garnish with lime wedge