What is a key garnish in a Vodka Gimlet?

The key garnish in a Vodka Gimlet is lime. This cocktail typically consists of vodka and lime juice, and the lime garnish complements these flavors richly. The use of lime also highlights the tartness of the lime juice in the drink, enhancing the overall taste experience. A fresh lime wedge not only adds visual appeal but also allows the drinker to adjust the lime flavor to their preference by squeezing more juice into the drink if desired. Lime is integral to the cocktail's identity, making it the foundational and most appropriate garnish.

While the other options may serve as garnishes in various cocktails, they do not align with the traditional preparation of a Vodka Gimlet. For instance, a cherry is often associated with sweeter cocktails, a lemon twist is more common in drinks like the Gin Gimlet, and mint leaves are generally found in refreshing cocktails like a Mojito. Hence, lime is specifically connected to the Vodka Gimlet, reinforcing its classic profile.