In the 1820s, amid the death of Napoleon, the invention of the mackintosh (raincoat, not computer), and the first ever Oxford and Cambridge boat race, a Kent-based farmer's son named James Pimm invented what has come to be one of the most iconic beverages of the British summer.
Pimm’s is a gin-based spirit, made by infusing gin with a secret combination of herbal botanicals, caramelised orange and warm spices. Mr Pimm originally served it at his oyster bar in London, but by the 1850s it had gained popularity and gone into mass production.
Today, it's one of the most common summer drinks, with "it's Pimm's O'clock" becoming a nationally recognised, only-semi-ironic staple of any balmy afternoon drinks.
While its popularity spikes during outdoor daytime events such as Wimbledon or Ascot, that doesn't mean it shouldn't be enjoyed at home too.
It's much simpler than many cocktails and widely adored, but there are certain tips which will make it a standout option.
Here's the recipe to know:
Ingredients
- 200ml Pimm’s No.1 (25 per cent ABV)
- 600ml lemonade
- 6 sliced strawberries
- 4 orange slices
- 4 slices of cucumber
- 2 sprigs of mint
Method
- Fill a 1.5l jug halfway up with ice cubes
- Pour in the Pimm’s No.1
- Pour in the lemonade
- Add the strawberries, orange and cucumber and stir
- Top with a sprig of mint and serve.
According to Elly Martin, Senior Brand Manager at Pimm’s, it’s imperative to get the balance right with the fruit you add:
“For the garnish, make sure you’re generous on fruit but don’t go overboard on mint – no one likes having a garden in their glass!” she tells The Independent.
“Don’t scrimp on the strawberries, and always make sure you’ve got enough cucumber and orange slices, before finishing with a couple of sprigs of mint. If you’ve got a paper straw to hand, pop it in and give it a stir.”
It’s Pimm’s O’clock.
