A few years ago I was in London and had my first Pimm’s Cup. It’s fantastic and a very popular cocktail in Great Britain. When I returned to the States, a British friend gave me a bottle of Pimm’s No.1 and I’ve been enjoying them ever since. It’s such a refreshing drink and perfect to make in a big batch for summertime parties too!
According to the back of the bottle, James Pimm opened an oyster bar in London way back in the 1840’s and created this cocktail, known as the Pimm’s No. 1 Cup. Pimm’s No. 1 is a gin based spirit with secret herbs, fruit, or spices. It’s secret so only a few really know for sure what’s in there. To me it has a subtle citrus and spice flavor. Other Pimm’s were made throughout the years based on other spirits, Pimm’s No. 2 was scotch based, Pimm’s No. 3 was brandy, Pimm’s No. 4 rum, Pimm’s No 5 rye, Pimm’s No. 6 vodka. Pimm’s No. 3 is now called Winter and available seasonally. Nos. 2, 4, and 5 have been phased out and No. 6 is produced in small quantities.
To make a traditional Pimm’s No. 1 Cup, combine 1 part Pimm’s to 3 parts lemonade. But don’t be fooled…lemonade to the British is a clear, lemon flavored carbonated drink, not the type of lemonade we are used to here. You could also use 7-up. Some people enjoy a Pimm’s Cup made with Schweppes or Canada Dry Bitter Lemon
And to complete the drink, be sure to add some sliced cucumber, orange or lemon, strawberries, apples (if you like) and mint.
PrintPimm’s Cup
Ingredients
- 1 part Pimm’s No. 1
- 3 parts lemon flavored soda water*
- Garnish:
- sliced cucumber, oranges or lemons, apples, strawberries, and mint
Instructions
- Mix Pimm’s and your lemon flavored soda water of choice in glass filled with ice. Garnish with sliced cucumber and fruit as desired. Top with a sprig of mint.
- *You can use San Pellegrino Limonata, Schweppes or Canada Dry Bitter Lemon, 7-Up, even Ginger Ale. Or try a mixture of lemonade and club soda.