Pimm's Cup

It's all been a little high-concept around here lately, so I decided to rein it in a bit, and share one of my favorite summer drinks with all of you. The Pimm's cup is an English classic, made with Pimm's No. 1, cucumber, and some kind of fizzy drink. It's more of a feeling than a specific recipe. Here's how I like to make mine.Instead of buying Pimm's No. 1, I like to make my own. It's very simple to make, and I suggest this recipe from Serious Eats. It's just gin, sweet vermouth, and a little bit of extra orange flavor. Since it's a wine product, it's perishable, which is why I prefer to make it in small batches as I intend to use it.

Lemon lime soda or ginger ale are common, but I like to use plain old soda water, and juice it up with a little bit of grated ginger and simple syrup. For me, it's all about the ritual, so I like to take my time and create an elegant plating, by layering strawberry, orange, and cucumber inside the glass.

Pimm's Cup

3 oz Pimm's No 1. (DIY)

1 Tbsp grated fresh ginger

Dash of simple syrup

Cucumber, strawberry, and navel orange to fill the glass

Soda water

Layer the produce inside a highball glass with ice.

Shake the Pimms, grated ginger, and simple syrup over ice, and then strain it into the glass.

Top with soda water.

Optionally top it with a grind of black pepper.

A "cup" is generally a wine-based drink, and sure enough, this is that. I like to drink them in summer, and with this kind of dramatic presentation, they are great for entertaining.

Cheers.