pimms_cocktail

Pimm's cocktail recipes

Shake, strain into a cocktail glass, and serve.

Mix the blackcurrant and the lemonade together. Add the gin and pimms together stirring well but do not shake. Garnish with fruit pieces. Mix a batch and serve liberally.

Pour pimm's no.1 into a highball glass. Add a twist of lemon and fill with 7-up. Garnish with a slice of cucumber.

Pour Pimm's over ice cubes in a large highball glass. Fill with 7-up, add twists of lemon and cucumber peel, and serve.

Pour pimm's no.1 over ice in a large highball glass. Fill with ginger ale and garnish with a lemon and cucumber peel.

Pour into an ice-filled wine goblet. Garnish with a slice of lemon and a cherry.

Shake, strain into a champagne saucer, and serve.

Pimm's cocktail recipes for summer

Bored of Pimm's and lemonade? Here are some great summer drinks to make with Britain's favourite summer cup

By Jonathan Ray

5:10PM BST 06 Jul 2015

Everybody loves a glass of Pimm's in the summer - and the classic recipe, with lemonade and fruit (see below), is always refreshing.

But sometimes you need something just a little bit more exciting. Here are a few quirky recipes to try with the gin-based tipple.

PIMM'S CLASSIC

INGREDIENTS

• 1 part Pimm's
• 3 parts lemonade
• Ice

Mix all ingredients in a highball or half pint glass.

Garnish with orange, strawberry, mint and cucumber.

Classic pimms with lemonade (ALAMY)

PIMM'S DEUCE

INGREDIENTS

• 1 part Pimm's
• 1.5 parts orange juice
• 1.5 parts cranberry juice
• Ice

Mix all ingredients in a highball or half pint glass.

Garnish with orange and strawberry.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 part Pimm's
• 3 parts Pomegreat
• Ice

Mix all ingredients in a highball or half pint glass.

Garnish with orange and ripped basil

Pimms with cranberry juice (ALAMY)

PIMM'S GINGER

INGREDIENTS

• 1 part Pimm's
• 3 parts ginger ale
• Ice

Mix all ingredients in a highball or half pint glass.

Garnish with lemon and sprig of mint

Pimms with ginger beer (ALAMY)

PIMM'S ROYALE

INGREDIENTS

• 25ml Pimm's
• Top up with sparkling wine

Mix all ingredients in a champagne flute.

Garnish with a strawberry.

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Recipes

The Tipple Shuffler

Filter using the options

• The Original No.1
• Blackberry & Elderflower
• Winter Cup
• Tipples
• Pudding
• I want them all!

Nominated for Drink Most Deserving of Miniature Umbrella.

Best make a jugful, you never know who’ll turn up.

Pimm's Spice

PIMM’S Blackberry Spice is really nice with crushed ice and a vanilla slice.

Perky, fruity with a hint of gingery amazingness.

The Pimmlet

Break out the cocktail shaker and prepare your tastebuds.

The name is the recipe, my friends. Mix together over ice and let the good times roll.

Pimm's Royale

Chill your flutes people, and make way for the PIMM’S Royale.

Come in from the cold for a PIMM’SKI. Na Zdorovie!

Pimm's Fancy

I just made a PIMM’S Fancy. As if PIMM’S weren’t fancy enough!

Pimm's Winter

Like a symphony in a glass. #Soz #Vivaldi

Pimm's Tropical

Kick back with a PIMM’S Tropical and a makeshift hammock.

Called a Sidecar cos it goes well with another drink. Like another sidecar.

Pimm's Sparkler

PIMM’S Pimm's Blackberry & Elderflower Sparkler anyone? Bubbles baby, BUBBLES!

Winter Pimm's

PIMM'S Short and Sweet. Nuff said.

Warm yourself to the core with this sticky sweet deliciousness.

It’s dark. It’s cold. It’s raining. It’s PIMM’S O’Clock. Wait. What?

Pimm's Ginger Berry

PIMM’S Ginger Berry with two types of ice!

PIMM’S and plums tucked under a lovely, crumbly blanket.

This is no mere trifle, but a triumph of custard and fruit.

Ah, the very definition of delayed gratification.

• 

Pimm's Snow Cone by Kait Kucy

Cherry & Pimm's Pie by Lisa Manche

Pimm's Cupcakes by Becs Rivett

Pimm's with a Gingery Twist by Jenny Ge

Pimm's Cake by Steph M.

The Pimm’s, Anyone For Pimm’s, Pimm’s No.1 and Pimm’s Winter words, numerals and associated logos are trademarks. The Pimm’s Company 2016.

Pimm's Home Page

Best make a jugful, you never know who’ll turn up.

Nominated for Drink Most Deserving of Miniature Umbrella.

Pimm's Spice

PIMM’S Blackberry Spice is really nice with crushed ice and a vanilla slice.

The Pimmlet

Break out the cocktail shaker and prepare your tastebuds.

Warm yourself to the core with this sticky sweet deliciousness.

Pimm's 1.5L Plastic Jugs x 2

No British household cupboard is complete without a PIMM'S Jug. Essential for the perfect PIMM'S O'Clock! They’re ideal…

Welcome to our Pimm's World

• 

In the ‘60s, while some chaps were messing with moon landings and the like, PIMM’S was working on cups No.5 and No.6.

There have been 6 PIMM’S recipes: gin, scotch, brandy, rum, rye, vodka. Around the world, enterprising individuals continue to work on their own No. 7.

In 1870, future London Mayor Horatio Davies took PIMM’S company and its 5 restaurants to new heights. Naturally, he was knighted.

Pimm made his No.1 Cup in the 1840’s after realising customers stayed longer when they sipped, rather than slugged, their gin.

Wily marketer Jim Moran staged a ‘heated debate’ in a Manhattan nightclub over the correct PIMM’S garnish. His rowdy actresses made the front page.

Wily marketer Jim Moran staged a ‘heated debate’ in a Manhattan nightclub over the correct PIMM’S garnish. His rowdy actresses made the front page.

The London borough of Pimlico is not named after James Pimm, but is a lovely location for a picnic.

From the shores of Sri Lanka to the officer's mess in Khartoum, by 1914 PIMM’s was already a pillar of the Empire.

• 

Pimm's with a Gingery Twist by Jenny Ge

Cherry & Pimm's Pie by Lisa Manche

Pimm's Cake by Steph M.

Pimm's Snow Cone by Kait Kucy

Pimm's Cupcakes by Becs Rivett

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It's pretty much never not Pimm's O'Clock.

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The Pimm’s, Anyone For Pimm’s, Pimm’s No.1 and Pimm’s Winter words, numerals and associated logos are trademarks. The Pimm’s Company 2016.

The Pimm's Cup and Beyond: 3 Cocktails to Make with Pimm's No. 1

Memorial Day’s in the rearview mirror, which means it’s time to fire up the grill, don your summer whites—and break out the Pimm’s No. 1. This herbal, spice-infused liqueur is huge in the UK, where the fruit-topped Pimm’s Cup is a classic English summertime-afternoon, playing-croquet-on-the-lawn sort of drink.

James Pimm invented the original Pimm’s (and gave it the highly original name of Pimm’s No. 1) in London in the 1840s, combining gin with a distinctive blend of herbs, fruits and more. In further years, he followed it up with Scotch-based Pimm’s No. 2, brandy-based Pimm’s No. 3 and so on. Today, most of the others have been discontinued and it’s just the No. 1 you’re likely to see.

It’s low-proof enough (25 percent ABV) to make for a great all-day sipper, particularly mixed with lemonade or ginger ale, à la the classic Pimm’s Cup. But our fascinating friend Pimm’s can be plenty versatile, too. Here are three ways to serve it this summer.

Easy: Classic Pimm’s Cup

If you go to the local pub in Wherever-Shire and order a Pimm’s Cup, most likely you’ll just get Pimm’s with lemonade or perhaps ginger ale. We prefer the latter, for its bit of ginger kick, making for a simple, straightforward way to appreciate the spicy, herbal flavors of Pimm’s. It’s dead-easy to make at home—and just as easy to make by the pitcher.

Instructions: In a glass with ice, mix 2 ounces of Pimm’s and 4 ounces of ginger ale. Garnish with a cucumber slice.

Intermediate: Whiskey Rebellion

When most people think of Pimm’s, they think of that single cocktail. But we find that all of its interesting herbal and spicy notes make Pimm’s an excellent addition to other drinks. Here, the spice of good rye makes a perfect match, with lemon and a touch of sugar to brighten it up. Consider this your ideal summer evening cocktail after a day’s worth of Pimm’s Cups.

Instructions: To a cocktail shaker with ice, add 1 ounce of Pimm’s, 1 ounce of rye (we like High West Rendezvous rye), ¾ ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice and ¾ ounce of simple syrup (equal parts sugar dissolved in hot water). Shake it all up, strain over fresh ice and garnish with a lemon wedge).

Advanced: The Ultimate Pimm’s Cup

We already taught you the basics of the Pimm’s Cup. But there’s a lot of room for improvement. It’s a cocktail that’s tons of fun to garnish—you’ll often see them with strawberries or cucumbers on top—but we think it’s even better with all of those ingredients muddled right in, along with some lemon to brighten it up. Instead of ginger ale, use the sharper ginger beer and fresh muddled ginger. With a little pop of gin, and a fruit-basket garnish on top, it’s a serious crowd-pleaser.

Instructions: In a cocktail shaker, muddle—that is, smash up—a slice of ginger (about the size of one finger knuckle, ¼ inch thick), 1 cucumber slice and half a strawberry. Add 3 mint leaves, 1 ounce of Pimm’s, 1 ounce of gin (we’re using London’s classic Beefeater), ¼ ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and ¼ ounce of simple syrup (equal parts sugar dissolved in hot water). Shake that all up, and fine-strain (pour through your cocktail strainer, then through a fine mesh strainer) into a glass with fresh ice. Top with 2 ounces of ginger beer. Garnish with another cucumber slice, half a strawberry and a lemon wheel.

Pimm's Cup: A Favorite British Lemonade Cocktail Recipe

• 3 mins
• Prep: 3 mins,
• Cook: 0 mins
• Yield: 1 serving

The Pimm's Cup is both a liqueur and a mixed drink. It is a delightful and easy beverage that pairs the namesake liqueur with lemonade and it may quickly become one of your new favorites.

Pimm's is very popular in the United Kingdom and the mixed drink could be considered the 'official' refreshment of Wimbledon. It is a spectacular summer cocktail that is fitting for a tennis match in July or any other occasion, for that matter.

The liqueur featured is Pimm's Cup No. 1, a gin-based spirit with the flavor of spiced fruit that originated at the Oyster Bar in London. Adding a mixer as subtle as lemonade enhances its character and turns it into a stimulating and light beverage.

This first recipe is also called 'Pimm's Original' by The Pimm's Company. Though there are many recipes for a Pimm's Cup No. 1, this should really be considered the most traditional.

What You'll Need

• 1 part Pimm's Cup No. 1
• 3 parts lemonade
• Mint, orange, and/or strawberries for garnish
• Cucumber slice or peel for garnish

How to Make It

1. Pour the liqueur into a collins glass filled with ice cubes.
2. Add the lemonade.
3. Garnish with the cucumber and any combination of mint, orange, or strawberries.

It is more 'traditional' for a sparkling lemonade to be used in the drink though the fizz is left out in The Pimm's Company's current recipe. It is a fantastic addition, however, and you can bring it back in any number of ways.

• Quite simply, add a splash of sparkling water or any clear soda. Even tonic water will do because the original Pimm's Cup No. 1 is reported to have included quinine.

• Carbonate a still lemonade directly using a soda machine.
• Use sparkling water (seltzer or club soda) as a portion of the water while mixing lemonade.

Variations on the Pimm's Cup

As mentioned, there are many recipes for a Pimm's Cup. The one below includes the traditional sparkling water. Also, notice how the amount of liqueur is increased, giving the drink a little more punch (as you'll see, it's very light so this may not be a bad idea).

Now, if you'd like to shake things up a little more, here are two very popular variations:

What is Pimm's Cup No. 1?

Pimm's is the familiar name for a liqueur that is formally known as Pimm's Cup No. 1 (the same as the mixed drink, though the drink typically drops the 'No. 1').

It is a gin-based liqueur with a deep red color that is flavored with 'herbal botanicals,' spices, and caramelized orange. What exactly those botanicals and spices are, only the people behind the brand know for sure.

The story begins in 1840 with James Pimm at his Oyster Bar in London. As was customary at the time, he was a master of creating his own liqueurs and he called each of his secret recipes a 'house cup.'

Rather than giving each liqueur a unique name, Pimm numbered his cups. They quickly became famous and before the turn of the century they were bottled and sold outside the bar.

Over the years, there has been a total of six Pimm's recipes that were bottled and sold. Each began with a different base liquor and used various herbs, fruits, and spices to create the unique flavors.

• Pimm's Cup No. 1 - gin
• Pimm's Cup No. 2 - scotch
• Pimm's Cup No. 3 - brandy
• Pimm's Cup No. 4 - rum
• Pimm's Cup No. 5 - rye whiskey
• Pimm's Cup No. 6 - vodka

Pimm's fell out of the limelight around the 1970s and dramatic changes have been made to the brand's portfolio. Today, The Pimm's Company produces only three liqueurs; the gin, brandy, and vodka versions. Of these, only Pimm's Cup No. 1 held onto its original name.

• Pimm's Cup No. 1 - As mentioned, gin with herbs, spices, and caramelized oranges. 25% ABV (50 proof)
• Blackberry & Elderflower - A recipe based on No. 6 with vodka, this is a fascinating fruit cup of the named ingredients. It can also be used in the Pimm's Cup No. 1 drink recipe. 20% ABV (40 proof)
• Winter Cup (No. 3) - Brandy-based with cinnamon, caramel, and orange that is the brand's answer for the winter months. Try this one with ginger ale. 25% ABV (50 proof)

As of 2016, The Pimm's Company is a Diageo brand and you can generally find any of these bottles for around $20.

How Strong is the Pimm's CupDrink?

The Pimm's Original mixed drink is extremely light and has an alcohol content of right around 6% ABV (12 proof). This is about the same as the average beer so feel free to have a second round.

Pimms cocktail

Monday, May 9, 2011

Pimm’s Cup – The Perfect Summer Cocktail

• 1½ ounces of Pimm’s No. 1 Cup (if you have a particularly tall glass, you can increase to 2 ounces)
• 2 ounces fresh lemon juice (juice of 1 large lemon; fresh-squeezed juice tastes much better than commercially prepared, but you can substitute in a pinch)
• ½ - 1 ounce simple syrup (or granular sugar; to taste)
• club soda or plain seltzer water to top up glass
• garnish (optional - cucumber spear or slices, mint, and/or apple, lemon, orange, or strawberry slices; see notes)

Procedure

1. Assemble your ingredients. Juice lemon. Add simple syrup to juice to make lemonade. (Just add a bit of simple syrup, stir to incorporate, taste, and repeat if necessary until the lemonade suits your palate. I prefer lemonade on the tart side, so I use about ½ ounce of simple syrup.)
2. Fill tall glass with ice. Add Pimm’s. Add lemonade. Top off with club soda or plain seltzer. Add straw, stir to mix, and garnish as you wish (see notes).

• Pimm’s is not a spirit that anyone would want to drink by itself on the rocks. But mixed in a cocktail, it’s sublime.
• Pimm’s contains 25% alcohol (in the United States alcohol proof is twice the percentage of alcohol, so that’s 50-proof). Most spirits sold today contain 40% alcohol (80-proof), so Pimm’s is a relatively low-alcohol drink.
• This recipe calls for making American “lemonade” — a mixture of lemon juice, sugar, and still water (simple syrup is just sugar and water) — and then adding carbonation in the form of club soda or seltzer. In Britain, the term “lemonade” often means a sweetened, carbonated drink that resembles lemon-lime soda. In fact, many Pimm’s Cup recipes use 7-UP or Sprite instead of (American) lemonade. In my opinion, this version of the drink is much too sweet. But if you want to make it this way, here’s the procedure: Add 1½ ounces of Pimms to the glass, fill to the top with lemon-lime soda, stir with a straw to mix, and there you go.
• You can also substitute ginger ale for lemonade. I haven’t tried it, but many people I respect like this version (Drink Boy, for example).
• If you use ordinary granulated table sugar rather than simple syrup for the lemonade, be prepared to stir a bit to fully dissolve the sugar.
• Traditionally, this drink is served elaborately garnished. It’s very common to see spears or slices of cucumber (preferably English cucumber) and apple. In Britain, many people garnish with borage, a herb that can be difficult to find in the US (so we often use mint instead). It’s also common to see sliced lemons, oranges, and strawberries. The photos that accompany this post illustrate some garnish possibilities. I don’t much like garnishes in drinks, so I usually omit them. However, cucumber does add a pleasant dimension to this drink, so I recommend trying it at least once. And a slice of lemon adds a festive touch.
• If you’re having a party, this is a good drink to prepare by the pitcherful. Simply scale up the recipe as needed. If you’re making it in a large quantity, I would add garnish (to the pitcher). Slices of cucumber, lemon, strawberry, and orange add color and flavor.
• The drink is called Pimm’s Cup because technically it belongs to a class of drinks called Fruit Cups. Fruit Cups are common in Britain, but almost unknown in the US. Traditionally, they are served in summer. They consist of a spirit (usually gin) mixed with a soda (soft drink), fruit, herbs, spices, and/or botanicals.
• The spirit used in this drink is called Pimm’s No. 1 Cup, which implies that there are additional numbered variations. And indeed, at one time Pimm’s made Numbers 2 through 6 , which substituted different base spirits (such as Scotch whisky and rum) for the gin contained in Pimm’s No. 1. Today, only variations No. 3 (brandy-based) and No. 6 (vodka-based) are still made — though in such small quantities that they are not easily found in the US (or anywhere, for that matter).

A Great Barbeque Drink

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20 comments:

I had Pimms for the first time last summer (in England) and I LOVED it! You are right, it's cool and refreshing without knocking you on your butt:) Thanks for reminding me of this delish drink!

Hi, Lucy, thanks for the comment. It really is an enjoyable drink.

Absolutely gorgeous pictures! I'm looking forward to trying this cocktail this summer. Thanks!

Thanks for the compliment on the pictures, Nicky! It's not only a pretty looking drink, it's great tasting, too!

Two of my best friends live in New Orleans, perhaps the only American city obsessed with Pimm's Cups, and I get my fill every time I visit them. Great recipe and photos. Perfect way to welcome in the warmer weather!

Hi Katherine, thanks! You're right that New Orleans is a great place to get a Pimm's (a Sazerac, too). Thanks for stopping by.

Hello again! Just wanted to let you know that I mention and link to your recipe on a post I did on simple syrups and summer cocktails :-) http://www.katherinemartinelli.com/blog/2011/four-simple-syrup-recipes-and-a-grenadine/

Hi Katherine, thanks for the reference to my post! I've been on vacation the last couple of weeks (Alaska!) so I've fallen behind in my blog reading, so I'll put your blog first on my list. Thanks again.

I always order a Pimm's Cup when I see it on a cocktail menu. Thanks for giving it some more visibility.

Hi FJK, thanks for stopping by! Pimm's Cup is great, isn't it? I've heard from a lot of people who haven't had one before, tried it, and really liked it.

Love my Pimm's Cups! Brings back memories of honeymoon in St. Kitts 20 years ago. Up there with Negronis in my book.

Hi Baba, Pimm's Cup is a great drink. Haven't had one yet this season, but I'm sure I will soon. The Negroni is also lovely, particularly in warm weather (pretty good in cold weather, too!). Thanks for taking time to comment.

Look at the second shot ! Sooooooo picture perfect drink ! Soooooooo gorgeous !

Hi Suborna, this really is a swell drink, and perfect for warmer weather! Thanks for the kind words, and comment.

Another fantastic, classic cocktail. I'm glad Anne told me about your site, you've got some great drink posts and with a 4 day weekend upon me I think I may need to try as many of these as I can. Cheers!

Hi loafofbeer, the Pimm's cup is a wonderful drink! Worth a 4 day weekend in itself. ;-) Thanks for the comment.

I have to try this cocktail! Sounds really refreshing and I love trying something new. well, new to me anyway! Nice post!

Hi Marcelle, this is a terrific drink! Loads of flavor, and very refreshing. Thanks for the comment.

I've been drinking Pimm's for decades, and I completely agree with you about using freshly squeezed lemon juice, simple syrup and seltzer instead of a sugary (make that HFCS'y!) lemon-lime soda.

Hi Jean, love freshly squeezed lemon juice! And it's wonderful in a Pimm's. :-) Thanks for the comment.

Pimm's Cup

Ingredients (5)

• 1/2-inch thick English cucumber wheel
• 1/2-inch thick lemon wheel
• 2 ounces Pimm’s No. 1
• 4 ounces 7UP, lemon-lime soda, or ginger ale
• lemon twist

• Calories 266
• Fat 0.45g
• Saturated fat 0.13g
• Trans fat
• Carbs 46.2g
• Fiber 1.56g
• Sugar 35.14g
• Protein 1.41g
• Cholesterol
• Sodium 18.33mg
• Nutritional Analysis per serving (1 servings)Powered by

Pimm’s No. 1 is a gin-based potation made in England from dry gin, liqueur, fruit juices, and spices. Served with lemon soda or ginger ale, it becomes a Pimm’s Cup. Pimm’s No. 1 was created in the mid-18th century by English oyster bar owner James Pimm. The recipe is still a secret; supposedly, only six people know exactly how it is made. It has a dark, golden brown color, a medium body, and a taste of quinine, citrus fruits, and spice. Its low alcohol content of only 25 percent has made Pimm’s a drink to have when you are having more than one. As was customary at the time, Pimm served the cocktail in tankards—hence the name Pimm’s Cup. The rage for this relative of the Sling became so great that Pimm mass-produced and bottled it along with Pimm’s 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6: whiskey, brandy, rum, rye, and vodka, respectively. Detractors have likened the earthy mixture to liquid dirt mellowed by iodine, but the Pimm’s Cup is still the traditional drink of Wimbledon, with visitors to the matches consuming some 40,000 pints a year. The addition of a cucumber slice gives the drink some truck as a health food. Some.

Pimm's Cup

A thirst-quenching, supremely summery drink (in England, it's a must at cricket matches), Pimm's Cup mixes lemony soda (or ginger ale), fruit, cucumbers, mint, and a fortifying shot of gin. Pimm's No. 1, a gin-based drink, was invented in 1823 by James Pimm, who served it at his oyster bar in London. It is widely available at liquor stores.

Ingredients

• 2 oranges, cut into half-moons
• 2 lemons, cut into half-moons
• 1 Persian cucumber (see Notes) or one 3-in.-long piece English cucumber, washed and sliced
• 2 cups Pimm's No. 1 (see Notes)
• 4 cups Sprite or other lemon-lime soda
• 6 to 8 large sprigs mint, crushed gently, plus a few loose leaves

Nutritional Information

• Calories 226
• Caloriesfromfat 0%
• Protein 1.3g
• Fat 0.2g
• Satfat 0.0g
• Carbohydrate 21g
• Fiber 2.9g
• Sodium 16mg
• Cholesterol 0.0mg

How to Make It

Fill 2 pitchers 1/4 full with ice. To each, add a layer of orange slices, a few lemon slices, and a layer of cucumber slices. Repeat the layering. Pour in the Pimm's and Sprite, dividing between pitchers, and mix with a long-handled spoon. Poke mint sprigs and leaves down into drink. Divide drink among 8 tall glasses, with a few slices of fruit and cucumber in each glass, along with some mint leaves.

Notes: Persian cucumbers are small, thin-skinned, virtually seedless, and very tasty. They're sold at well-stocked grocery

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Wine, Cocktails, Food and Travel

Pimm’s and Pimm’s Based Cocktails

Brief background to Pimm’s: The drink was created by James Pimm in his 1820`s Oyster Bar. Pimm began to market it ready-mixed in 1859, such was its popularity. It was taken as a digestive tonic, due to the high level of quinine and the mash of herbs involved in its production. Fashionable society began to drink Pimm`s as a cocktail during the later part of the 19th century, partially for the alcoholic lift and partially because it was weak enough to be drunk all afternoon.

There have been six different `cups` produced over the years. Now only the No.1 cup is in wide distribution along with a spicier winter warmer version. The No.6 Cup, launched in 1964 was discontinued in 2014. But following a social media campaign owner Diageo plans a re-launch (Summer 2015). Each cup is based on a different base spirit –

The Pimm`s Range and Cup Base Spirit Variants

• No.1 Gin
• No.2 Whiskey
• No.3 Brandy
• No.4 Rum
• No.5 Rye
• No.6 Vodka (Vodka Sling)
• Winter Warmer
• Pimm’s Blackberry & Elderflower
• Pimm’s Strawberry with a Hint of Mint
• Cider Cup
• Pimm’s Summer Crush

The Winter Warmer was released in 2004 to expand Pimm’s beyond its seasonal (ie Spring/Summer) base. Pimms Winter Warmer is a rebranding of the old No.3 cup and retains brandy as its base. Launched in 2013 Pimm’s Blackberry & Elderflower is another range extension. Pimms Cider Cup was launched in 2015 and blends Pimm’s No.1 and British cider with a hint of strawberry and cucumber. Pimm’s Cider Cup or ‘spider’ is designed to be served in a pint glass over ice has 4% abv and comes in a 50cl brown glass bottle. Pimm’s Summer Crush is a frozen pouched variant launched in April 2015.

In April 2016 Pimm’s added three new flavours to its Cider Cup range – Summer Fruits, Mango & Passionfruit and Plum & Red Apple – “uniting Pimm’s No.1 spirit, British cider and a hint of fruitiness”.

Throwing in every type of fruit available does not a good cocktail make. A simple Pimm`s and Soda water is just as refreshing. More complicated cocktails are detailed below. Where mint is listed try bashing the leaves first to release more flavour. All should be made over plenty of ice. Optionally you could add frozen cubes of orange juice as well. If you can find fresh borage use some of its smaller leaves instead of the cucumber. Over the last couple of years we have accumulated the following distinctive cocktail recipes. Experiment and enjoy.

Pimm’s and Pimm’s Based Cocktails

1 measure of Pimm`s

3 measures of Ginger Beer

1 slice of lemon

1 slice of Cucumber

1 slice of Apple

2 measures of Pimm`s

2 measure of Ginger Beer

2 measures of Lemonade

1 slice of Cucumber

1 slice of Lemon

1 slice of Orange

1 slice of strawberry

1 bottle of Pimm`s

1 bottle of Bourbon

1/4 bottle of sweet Vermouth

1/4 bottle of white Rum

300mls of Orange Juice

1 bottle of Champagne or Sparkling wine

Fresh fruit – strawberries, pineapple, cherries, peaches

1 measure of Pimm`s

1 measure of Gin

3 measures of lemonade

1 slice of Lemon

1 measure of Pimm`s

1 slice of Orange

1 slice of Lemon

1 slice of Lime

1 slice of Apple

Top up glass with Champagne

Pimms and Champagne

1 measure of Pimm`s

3 measures Champagne

1 bottle Smirnoff Ice

½ pint of Strongbow Cider

35 ml Gordons Gin

35 ml Grenadine

50-100ml Soda Water (optional)

50-100ml Lemonade (optional)

Selection of fruit – Orange/Lemon slices

Combine in a large jug and enjoy with plenty of ice.

Created by Rob Hooton & Adrian Ginzler, with a slightly different word begining with F.

Bacon and Tomato Sandwich

3/4 measure Pimm`s

½ measure dark rum

½ measure white rum

2 measures lemonade

2/3 measure Scotch whisky

1/3 measure Lemon juice

5 measures lemonade

If bourbon is used in place of scotch this is a Bourbon Pimm`s.

Made with Blackberry & Elderflower

50ml Pimm’s Blackberry & Elderflower

10ml vanilla syrup

A pinch of cinnamon

A large mint spring and cinnamon stick to garnish, and ice

2 measures Pimm`s

3 measures Pomegreat Juice

A clean and highly refreshing alternative to the classic Pimm’s. Finishes drier and classier than with lemonade. Don’t forget the usual fruit and veg additions.

1½ measures Pimm`s

1/3 measure Glayva

1/3 measure Mandarine Napoleon

1/3 measure Scotch Whisky

4 measures of lemonade

30ml Noilly Prat Vermouth

10ml Roses Lime Cordial

10ml Pimms No.1 Cup

From Café Royal Cocktail Book 1937

10cm peeled fresh ginger

2 ripe red plums halved

200ml 100% aloe vera juice

60ml lime juice

200ml Pimm’s No. 1

Lemonade or Ginger Ale to top up

Garnish with grated ginger, slices of plum and fresh mint sprigs

Muddle ginger and plums together. Shake with the remaining ingredients. Strain into glasses with ice. Top up with either lemonade or ginger ale. Garnish.

Judy Joo of Jinjuu, London. From Waitrose Summer Drinks Guide 2014

15ml Sage Syrup

15ml Fresh Lemon Juice

3 dashes Angostura bitters

Build in a cocktail glass. Top with soda, add ice and stir. Garnish with sage leaves. To make the Sage Syrup: Bring 700ml of water to a boil. Lower the heat to a simmer and add 170g of fresh sage leaves. Steep for 7 minutes. Strain fully to remove all solids. Add 385g of sugar to the liquid mixture and stir until the sugar has dissolved. From Imbibe Magazine

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I have been planning a Pimms post for when the sun comes out. I feel it is my duty to introduce Pimms to the entire population of America. I already have qute a few of them hooked. But whenever I get round to the part when I try and explain the different cups I always get in a muddle. So thanks for the info. No 1 cup is the only one I see in these parts, but I sure would love to get hold of a No6!

I had a great Pimms champagne cocktail in Oakland the other day. (well actually I had 3 but that is another story). I like to use borage flowers set inside icecubes to decorate my pimms, I am trying to grow some in a pot on my deck, but no flowers yet. Other than that cucmber mint and lemonade would be my first choice.

Hi Sam. I live in the World Capital of Pimm’s (well at least during the Henley Regatta) so it seemed only right I posted about it.

The details are actually copied from an old Scribblings newsletter page (long since gone but still showing up on Google). This generates a huge amount of interest during the spring and summer – mostly from your side of the pond.

You really should try the Henley Skull cocktail (the correct name, is toned down for the post but I am sure you can work it out) is incredibly good – you really should try it. I rather like the Sandwich too; but then I am rather partial to rum!

Incidently they relased a winter Pimm’s last year but I neglected to try it. If they repeat the experiment next autumn I will endevour to remember to send you a bottle.

Drinking PIMMS for over 30 years – an old flame introduced me to its pleasures – an amazing way to get the attention of the wait-staff in any restaurant –

Back in late ’70s – came across two original PIMMS Cups – handing on the wall of an old restaurant/inn in western New Jersey – asked politely if I could purchase them – asked again – asked the friend who brought me to the Inn to asked the owner if I could buy the PIMMS Cups – hanging on the wall – gathering dust – tried again – the restaurant owner’s solution . – rather than sell them – he took them off the wall – never to be seen again – bummer .

by the by – try PIMMS with Ice Tea – awesome –

This winter Waitrose carried Pimms No.3 ‘Winter’. This was unfortunately quite a dissapointment. On balance it is likely that Gin and Vodka are the best carriers for a fruit cup.

Jane MacQuitty came up with an excellent ‘cheat’ Pimms. Try 1 x shot Gin + 1 x shot Red Vermouth + 1/2 x shot of Curaco (I like Triple Sec). Add greenery and choice of fruits – leave for flavours to mingle whilst chilling. Then add lemonade / ginger ale to suit taste. Sit and watch sun sink!

I have also heard about a Pimms “cheat” that involves Port, Martini Rosso, Gin, and medium dry Sherry….. I’ve not tried it, but based on my limited experience with mixing alcoholic flavours it sounds like it should be close. Although I do agree with the comment by Nigel that a bit of Triple Sec would add to the mix.

I am a keen Pimm’s fanatic and interested in the fruitful history enshrining this wonderful drink. Is there anyone out there that can give me the recipe for the forgotten Pimm’s No 2? I would be most thankful.

I have been on a search for some glassware to highlight my Pimm’s fetish. I am working on establishing an outpost in Northern California. I saw a picture of some some large glasses with the logo from the bottle on it. The pic was a stock photo form the Wall street Journal and they have no idea where to get the glasses. Ebay comes up short as do all my usual stores. Any thoughts from here or across the pond?

Hi Gary – in the UK the branded Pimms merchandise (glasses, jugs etc) are generally included in gift packs or given away free at point of purchase.

I’ve checked a couple of sites but no one seems to offer the swag for direct sale. Sorry about that.

just had the no 1 with lemonade, apple, cucumber, strawberry and mint – topped off with a ton of ice. I’m now ready for bed – thirst saited but ready to be rude…if you know what I mean!

wow, just found this, and now I have Pimms on my list for tomorrow run to the store! Thanks for this

I have loved Pimm’s for years, and wanted to try cups 2-6, but even on my travels to the UK have never been able to find them.

I recently made a batch of cucumber infused vodka which I now combine with my Pimm’s and lemonade or tonic, or…

Sometimes a little extra kick is needed to help you forget the work day.

The Pimms glassware is available from most breweries. Try Scottish and Newcastle. Most pubs get them free with purchases.

Ryan – they only make 1 and 6 now.

There are only subtle differences between the two available cups; either would work with the cocktails as listed. Only the winter version is radically different.

One shot of Cointreau, two shots of Pimms. Cool with champagne in refrigerator. Slice lemon, orange, cucumber and a few sprigs of mint. Align tall glasses with a little ice in each, pop in vegetation, mix champagne into Pimms mix and pour into glasses. Deeeeelicious!

Pimms seems to trigger nostalgia in people – so many Pimms drinkers I’ve talked to associate it with a summer spent somewhere, a burgeoning romance, special friends. It takes me right back to undergrad days in Oxford and June punting.

For people coming new to Pimms, help revive the old traditions and insist on your Pimms being made to occupy a ONE PINT TANKARD and not a mimsy tumbler. Fresh fruit needs room to swim – cobblers are cruel to cucumbers!

Some years back someone spilled the beans on the Pimms No 1 recipe. It is one part full strength gin (40% alcohol+ – stronger and drier the better in my view), one part red martini, half a part Bols Orange Curacao (if you can find it). That produces the original drier (and stronger)drink, before Messrs Pimms reduced the strength and added more caramel to improve their profit margins (but not sadly the drink)!

Also you do NOT add Ginger BEER to Pimms to produce a Classic Pimms, but Ginger ALE, a completely different mixer. Best to use Schweppes Dry ginger (not that filthy sweet American stuff/Canada Dry (which isn’t)). American ginger ale is really only suitable for the Ladies with a very sweet tooth! All that needs to be added apart from ice is a slice of lemon (there’s enough orange in the curacao, a slice or two of cucumber (vital ingredient) and a sprig of mint). Some like a sprig of borage for decoration. You are then all set to enjoy an afternoon at Henley, Cricket at Lords or Smiths Lawn for the polo with the finest of English summer drinks!

Hi, can anyone please tell me the name of the person wh created these Pimms cocktails? Thanks.

I’ve just had my first Pimms Cup today from some new friends just moved to the USA from the UK.

Now for the recipes here when it refers to Lemonade is this Lemonade as we americans know it (sugar water and lemon juice)? Or is this like lemon-lime soda?

You will need the carbonated stuff Liese; it has to be fizzy!

I went to visit relatives in England. We had several lovely “winter drinks”, I loved it. Bought me some on way home to states. The two bottles I bought home have lasted me 4yrs. Anyway, Now I need to know where I can purchase more in the US. have Pimm’s No 3 Winter, can anyone give me a store name in Illinois that offers this?