Pimm's Refreshing Beverage

Delightful Pimm’s Cup Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1.5ounces Pimm's No. 1
• 4.5 ounces sparkling lemon soda
• 1 navel orange, sliced into thin rounds
• 1 lemon, sliced into thin rounds
• 3/4 cup fresh mint leaves and tender stems
• 1 cucumber, cut into 8 lengthwise wedges
• About 3 cups of ice
• 1 apple, quartered, cored, and thinly sliced

Preparation Steps

Begin by filling a collins glass generously with ice cubes. Arrange the slices of orange, lemon, and cucumber around the inside of the glass to create a refreshing look. Pour in the Pimm's No. 1 and the sparkling lemon soda, then give it a gentle stir to mix the flavors together. For the final touch, add a sprig of mint and a few apple slices on top for garnish.

The Story Behind the Iconic Cocktail

Widely recognized as the official drink of Wimbledon, the Pimm’s Cup is not only visually appealing but also carries a rich history. This refreshing cocktail is made with only a handful of ingredients, bursting with flavor while maintaining a lower alcohol content, making it perfect for sipping throughout the day.

Named after its key component, Pimm’s No. 1, this gin-based liqueur carries a warm and complex herbaceous flavor, crafted from a unique blend of botanicals, citrus fruits, and spices. Created in 1823 by James Pimm, the liqueur has roots in the traditional realm of digestion aids, a common theme among many spirits of that era. Initially enjoyed with tonic water, its popularity soared, leading to the establishment of a bar at Wimbledon in the 1970s featuring the Pimm's Cup, enhanced with English-style lemonade and decorated with mint, cucumber, strawberries, and apples.

The Pimm’s Cup exemplifies the classic fruit cup or summer cup cocktails that blend herbal spirits, bubbly mixers, and wholesome garnishes. Its delightful combination of herbal liqueur, effervescent lemon soda, and an abundance of colorful fruits and herbs makes it the epitome of a summery drink. Whether served individually in a glass or mixed in a pitcher for gatherings, the Pimm’s Cup is as impressive in presentation as it is simple to prepare.

While this method of making a Pimm's Cup is traditional, feel free to get creative! You can easily customize your cocktail by incorporating other spirits such as vodka, gin, or even white rum for a twist of sweetness. If mint and citrus aren’t to your liking, experiment with tropical pineapple slices and aromatic basil for a unique variation on this beloved drink.