This past week, history was made at Wimbledon as the longest match ever was played for over 11 hours setting numerous records. One record which probably occurred during that epic match was the “most Pimm’s Cups consumed by spectators during a single match”. Indeed, there is no greater tradition than a nice cold Pimm’s Cup at the world’s most famous tennis tournament (unless you’re French – but let’s be realistic and give the Brits this one).
What is a Pimm’s Cup? A Pimm’s cup is a fantastic summer drink made with a shot of Pimm’s Number 1, some form of soda or lemonade with some form of fruit or cucumbers sliced up and put inside a highball glass. The combinations are endless and range from a fifth of a glass of Pimm’s with ginger ale to a fourth of a glass of Pimm’s with lemonade, club soda and cucumber wedges. It is cool and refreshing on ice and makes for a great outdoor drink in the summer time due to its quenching qualities and its relatively low alcoholic content.
Now that you know what a Pimm’s Cup is made of, you are probably wondering what Pimm’s Number 1 is and why there is a number 1 at all. The history is complex, but to be simple, Pimm’s No. 1 was first concocted by James Pimm in 1823 and was a gin based spirit with quinine and a mix of other herbs. The company grew and by the 1970’s six variations of Pimm’s were on the market. Pimm’s No. 2 had scotch, No. 3 had brandy, No. 4 had rum, No. 5 had rye whiskey and No. 6 had vodka. Today, due to reduced demand, only No. 1 and No. 6 exist with the original being by far the largest seller and the one that you will most likely find at your local drink store.
