The Bicycle Thief is a modern cocktail that perfectly balances bitterness, citrus, and refreshment. It was originally created at Dutch Kills in Long Island City, New York, by bartenders Zachary Gelnaw-Rubin and Abraham Hawkins.
The drink quickly became a favourite amongst cocktail enthusiasts. Its appeal comes from its simplicity and its ability to showcase bold flavours while remaining highly refreshing.
At the heart of the cocktail are equal measures of gin and Campari. Together they create a bittersweet foundation with plenty of character. The remaining ingredients are carefully chosen to enhance and balance those flavours.
Fresh grapefruit juice plays a particularly important role. It softens the intensity of the Campari while extending the drink. It also highlights the natural grapefruit notes already present within the aperitif.
Fresh lemon juice brings brightness and energy. Combined with a small amount of simple syrup, it creates balance and prevents the bitterness from becoming overwhelming.
A splash of soda water completes the serve. The bubbles lift the aromas and add a refreshing lightness. The slight dilution also helps the flavours integrate beautifully.
When made with Great Bustard Gin, the Bicycle Thief gains additional botanical complexity. The gin's citrus and herbal notes work perfectly alongside the bittersweet character of Campari.
The result is crisp, vibrant, and wonderfully refreshing. It is an ideal cocktail for warm afternoons, summer gatherings, or as a pre-dinner aperitif. Every sip delivers bright citrus, gentle bitterness, and a clean finish that keeps you coming back for more.
Ease of Making: Easy, amend quantities as needed.
Glass Type: Tumbler, Colins Glass, High Ball.
Taste: Refreshing, bittersweet.
Recipe:
- 25ml Great Bustard Gin.
- 25ml Campari.
- 75ml Grapefruit Juice.
- 12ml Lemon Juice.
- 12ml Simple Syrup.
- Club Soda to top up.
- Hand full of ice.
Method:
- Add gin, Campari, juices and simple sugar syrup into a shaker.
- Add a handful of ice to the shaker and close the lid.
- Shake for 15 seconds until chilled and then strain into your glass.
- Add ice to the glass and garnish with Orange, Grapefruit or Rosemary.
Variations:
- Use the new Fever Tree Blood Orange Soda.
- Replace Grapefruit Juice with Pineapple Juice.
