Happy Hour with AE: Pimm's Cup

Pimm's Cup

We just discovered this tasty little drink.  Well, actually, we knew about it, but just didn't know what it was so stayed far away for a very long time.  At a recent patio lunch at Lindey's, we got bold and decided to taste what had never been tasted before and it was DELICIOUS!   Here is a little history on Pimm's Cup and a recipe to try at home.  You won't be disappointed.  Promise!


Pimm's Cup is a long-time British favorite at warm-weather sporting events cricket, horse-racing and it's the official drink of Wimbledon!  This drink was introduced by Mr. James Pimm in the mid-1800's and boasts a gin-based concoction with a color like iced tea.  With the addition of muddled cucumber and fruit, it's as refreshing as it is light.  And being stiff as Brit's tent to sometimes be, the Pimm's Cup is only 50 proof, therefore making it a popular drink at horse-races, tennis courts and cricket matches, where court side decorum is important. 

Recipe: Pimms Cup

• Fill a Collins glass with ice.
• Mix 1 part Pimms Cup No. 1 with 2 parts lemonade Stir or shake.
• Top off with club soda, or ginger beer (we prefer ginger beer)
• Stir lightly -- but do NOT shake again.
• Garnish with a slice of English cucumber; lemon wedge optional.

Options

• If no lemonade is at hand, use Sprite or 7-Up or extra ginger beer.
• To make with ginger ale, use plenty of lemons.
• Mint, apple and orange can be added (muddled tastes best).
• Muddled cucumber adds a refreshing component to the drink

Note:  also looks cute served in a julep cup or vintage tumbler