In or around 1823 James Pimm, then owner of an oyster bar in London, created what would later become Pimm’s No. 1 Cup. Pimm’s No. 1 is a blend of gin, fruit nectars, quinine and a secret blend of herbs. The aroma of Pimm’s No. 1 is fruity and aromatic but the gin base comes through. The flavor is also fruity, somewhat earthy and very warming. Some time following the creation of Pimm’s No. 1 Pimm created what would become the spirit’s signature drink, the Pimm’s Cup.
The Pimm’s Cup is a classic cocktail in the UK. Difford’s sums it up nicely, “You’ve not properly experienced an English summer until you’ve drunk one of these whilst sheltering from the rain.” Seeing as it’s the middle of winter here in Colorado it seems like a good analog for the British summer and, as such, a perfect time to give this cocktail a go. The recipe is fairly simple, but there are a lot of variations. I’ll be starting here, with Regan’s recipe.
Pimm's Cup
[Ingredients]
2 oz Pimm's No. 1 Cup 5-7 oz Ginger Ale, Lemon/Lime Soda, or Club Soda 1 Sliver of Cucumber Rind for Garnish
[Directions]
1) Build in a 16 oz mixing glass. 2) Add the garnish.