Pimm's and Pimm's Based Cocktails. Add/Read Comments
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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 seems to be in wide distribution with No.6 sometimes seen. Each cup is based on a different base spirit -
Pimm`s Cup Base Spirit
- No.1 Gin
- No.2 Whiskey
- No.3 Brandy
- No.4 Rum
- No.5 Rye
- No.6 Vodka
- Winter Warmer also gin based
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.
Pimms and Ginger 1 measure of Pimm`s 3 measures of Ginger Beer 1 slice of lemon 1 slice of Cucumber 1 slice of Apple Fresh Mint |
Pimms Original 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 Fresh Mint |
Southern Pimms Punch 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 [makes a huge amount!] |
Pimms Spritz 1 measure of Pimm`s 1 measure of Gin 3 measures of lemonade 1 slice of Lemon 1 Strawberry |
Pimms Royale 1 measure of Pimm`s 1 slice of Orange 1 slice of Lemon 1 slice of Lime 1 slice of Apple Fresh Mint Top up glass with Champagne
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Pimms and Champagne 1 measure of Pimm`s 3 measures Champagne
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Henley Skullfarquar 1 bottle Smirnoff Ice ½ pint of Strongbow Cider 50 ml Pimm`s 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 1/3 measure Glayva 1/3 measure Mandarine Napoleon 1/3 measure Scotch Whisky 4 measures of lemonade |
Melanie Pimm 1½ measure Pimm`s 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. Pim Pom 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. Dont forget the usual fruit and veg additions. |
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Comments
Hey Andrew.
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.
Written by: sam | on April 17, 2005 11:37 PM
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.
Written by: andrew | on April 18, 2005 12:45 AM
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 -
Written by: hb herr | on April 18, 2005 11:05 AM
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!
Written by: Nigel Roberts | on May 5, 2005 5:54 PM
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.
Written by: Rob Skullfarquar | on May 15, 2005 11:54 PM
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.
Thomas
Written by: Thomas | on April 23, 2007 1:37 PM
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?
Gary
Written by: Gary | on July 22, 2007 3:29 AM
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.
Written by: Andrew | on July 22, 2007 9:19 AM
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!
Written by: Tony Wells | on June 23, 2008 8:37 PM
wow, just found this, and now I have Pimms on my list for tomorrow run to the store! Thanks for this
Written by: ryan | on July 18, 2008 10:45 PM