Pimm’s Cup - A Polite British Kick in the Groin to the Summer Heat
- davidcdouglass
- Aug 20
- 1 min read
The Pimm’s Cup is Britain’s idea of a summer drink: light, refreshing, and just alcoholic enough to make cricket seem interesting.
Born in 1840s London at James Pimm’s oyster bar (because nothing says “pair me with shellfish” like spiced gin liqueur), the Pimm’s Cup became the genteel way to day-drink without looking like you’re day-drinking. It’s technically a “fruit cup,” which is British for “we put fruit salad in the booze and called it sophisticated.”
What makes it special? It’s the sort of cocktail that feels classy but doesn’t actually require any bartending talent. If you can slice a cucumber and not maim yourself, congratulations—you’re qualified. It’s fizzy, herbal, citrusy, and just boozy enough to loosen your stiff upper lip. Think of it as the respectable cousin of sangria who actually remembers to hydrate.
Recipe:
2 oz Pimm’s No. 1
4 oz lemon-lime soda or ginger ale (or sparkling lemonade if you’re fancy)
Cucumber slices, strawberries, orange wheels, mint sprigs for garnish
Ice
Fill a tall glass with ice. Add Pimm’s. Top with your fizzy mixer of choice. Stuff in enough fruit and cucumber to make it look like a Whole Foods display. Drink. Repeat until cricket seems fun.
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