Creative Commons Photo Credit: whitneyinchicago
For the uninitiated, a Pimm’s Cup is a cocktail made using Pimm’s No 1, a gin-based liquor that was created in England in the mid-nineteenth century. The exact ingredients of the liquor are a closely guarded secret, known to only six people.
To make a Pimm’s Cup, pour one measure of Pimm’s No.1 into a high-ball glass filled with ice. Top with what the British call lemonade (7-Up or Sprite) and garnish with a sprig of mint, 1/2 strawberry and a slice of cucumber.
The drink evokes an old timey and oh-so British elegance, — 190,000 glasses are served during the Wimbledon tennis championships and it is also the go-to drink at polo matches and the Henley Royal Regatta. For years Pimm’s suffered under slightly stuffy connotations, thought of as the English toff’s drink of choice. Today, however, following an ad campaign that mocked its aristocratic associations, the Pimm’s Cup has become a staple in contemporary cocktail bars, and the low alcohol content makes it perfect for sipping in the heat.
It’s Pimm’s O’Clock any time at these Columbus venues:
The Pub at Polaris keeps it traditional and wins points for authenticity — this is a Brit-themed pub after all.
DeepWood’s Pimm’s Cup was rated best in Columbus by Alive. It serves a variation on the traditional cocktail and ups the alcohol content by adding extra gin.
The Jury Room creates another twist with the addition of Smirnoff Citrus, and (value!) serves it in a pint-sized glass
At Bodega the Pimm’s Cup is super refreshing with the substitution of ginger ale for lemon soda.
This is a guest post from Karen Dion. In a previous life, Karen worked as a Tokyo bar hostess where her income depended upon the number of Champagne bottles consumed. Despite this, she still loves a glass (or two) of champers. Karen has written for Honolulu Weekly, therumpus.net and matadornetwork.com.
5 Comments on "Anyone for a Pimm’s Cup?"
As someone who has rediscovered the awesomeness of gin (after an awful college experience), and being a huge anglophile, I can’t wait to try this!
Cool! I’ve seen Pimm’s and have always want to know the drink of choice. Welcome to DUC!
i never knew what it was. it sounds badass though. like a pimp’s cup 😉 ha. can’t wait to go try one at one of these spots
Yay! Would love to have a Pimm’s (or a Pimp’s) with all of you.
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