A common question I get as a bartender is "What is Pimm's?" Pimm's Cups appear on a lot of specialty cocktail lists, but its dark color and complex taste make this liqueur mysterious. Many popular liqueurs have single note flavors such as orange, ginger and elderflower. Pimm's, however, falls into a category of European liqueurs flavored with a secret blend of spices, fruits and herbs.
More specifically, Pimm's is one brand of fruit cup, which is a botanical flavored liqueur intended to be mixed with a fairly neutral mixer to make a light summery cocktail. Most fruit cups are gin based, and Pimm's No. 1 is no exception. If you aren't a fan of gin, you shouldn't let that fact scare you off from Pimm's; the strong juniper taste of gin that many find off putting is subdued in the flavoring process. At one point there were six varieties of Pimm's all with different base spirits, from rum to scotch, but the only varieties left are the classic gin based No. 1 and the vodka based No. 6, made in small amounts.
In England, Pimm's is held in the highest regard. The Pimm's Cup has become one of the most popular drinks to enjoy during the events that make up England's social season, such as the Henly Royal Regatta, Wimbledon, and the Chelsea Flower Show. Peerage is by no means a necessity to enjoy this drink; whether you're at a polo match, or enjoying a sunny day out back, you can easily mix you and your friends a few Pimm's Cups.
Alone Pimm's has a flavor similar to that of cola, so the most commonly used mixers tend to have light flavors to balance it. Sparkling lemonade, gingerale and sparkling wine are the most popular ones. Most fruits will serve as an acceptable garnish (blackberries and cucumbers are my personal favorite additions).
Robbie and I ventured out to enjoy an afternoon of reading classics and sipping on Pimm's Cups using my favorite recipe. Although I hope you enjoy my recipe, I'm interested to hear what all of you are using to make yours. Make sure to share your own creations with us!
Pimm's Cup:
2 oz Pimm's No. 1
Canada Dry Green Tea Gingerale
Sliced Cucumber
Fill a glass with ice and a handful of sliced cucumber. Add Pimm's and top with Green Tea Gingerale.
Enjoy!
XO
Pat and Robbie