Pimm's 'No. 1' Gin Cup Liqueur, England

Pimm's has become synonymous with the British summertime, embodying the essence of British history since its inception. In 1840, a notable year marked by the opening of King's College Hospital in London, James Pimm introduced his legendary No. 1 Cup. Crafted in his London Oyster Bar, this secret blend of gin, herbs, and liqueur was originally concocted to aid in the digestion of oysters. Today, the formula behind the iconic Pimm's No. 1 remains a closely guarded secret, tantalizing taste buds with its complex notes of bittersweet caramelised orange, fresh citrus, and herbal flavors, perfectly counterbalanced by the refreshing zest of lemonade.

Flavour Profile

The classic Pimm's No.1 Cup stays true to James Pimm's original 1840 concoction, maintaining its status as a cornerstone of British summer. Beyond its historic roots, Pimm's has become a focal point of British summer celebrations, including Wimbledon and Royal events, allowing people around the globe to partake in a slice of British culture.

Interesting Facts

• Pimm's was honored with a “Royal Warrant” in 2010, a testament to its esteemed position within British heritage.
• The Pimm’s Cup Cocktail, originating as a health tonic in the 1840s London, has evolved into a quintessential British summer beverage. Its invigorating mix of mid-proof spirit with lemon, ginger, and fruit offers a refreshing escape, especially on a hot day.

Pimm's No. 1 found a particularly devoted following in New Orleans, where its concoction with ginger ale, lemon juice, cucumber, and a fruit medley provided a cooling respite from the Southern warmth. Notably, it's the beverage of choice at Wimbledon, with the first Pimm’s Bar opening in 1971 on the prestigious tennis grounds.

Making a Pimm’s Cup at Home

The beauty of a Pimm’s Cup lies in its simplicity and versatility. Here’s a quick guide to creating this refreshing cocktail at home:

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces Pimm’s No. 1
• 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Ginger ale, to top
• Garnish: cucumber slice, mint sprig, strawberry, and optional lemon and orange wheels

Steps:

1. In a highball glass filled with ice, combine Pimm’s No. 1 and lemon juice.
2. Top with ginger ale and stir briefly to mix.
3. Garnish with a cucumber slice, a mint sprig, a skewered strawberry, and if desired, lemon and orange wheels.

For a twist, replace ginger ale and lemon juice with sparkling lemonade for a popular variation that maintains the drink’s refreshing appeal.

Whether you're enjoying a sunny day on the porch or watching tennis, the Pimm’s Cup offers a delightful way to savor the moment with a touch of British summertime.