Sunshine, Strawberries and Cream, Primms... it must be Wimbledon!

Okay, the sunshine might not last … but let’s enjoy it while we can!

It is the middle of summer and Wimbledon is very much upon us.

The drink most associated with Wimbledon is, of course, Pimms.

Even if you aren’t a tennis fan, this slightly spicy and refreshingly tangy tipple is worth discovering this summer.

 The Pimm’s Cup’s origins date back to 1832, when London oyster bar owner James Pimm started offering guests a gin-based beverage containing quinine and a secret blend of spices. The elixir was dubbed as a digestion aid, and served to patrons in small tankards known as “No. 1 Cups”.

The drink’s popularity quickly grew, and by the end of the 19th century it was ubiquitous all over the United Kingdom. The first Pimm’s bar opened at the 1971 Wimbledon tournament and today over 80,000 pints of Pimm’s and lemonade are sold there to spectators each year.

Although there have been six variations over the years, each with a different spirit base, the No 1 cup remains the most popular, with No 6 (Vodka based) and a re-branding of the No 3 cup (Brandy based) as the Winter Warmer in 2004 also available.

And the other de rigueur beverage at the renowned tennis championships, by the way, is Champagne.

Pimms can be enjoyed simply with soda water or lemonade with no embellishments.

However, common garnishes include cucumber, lemon and mint sprigs or leaves.

The cup can be mixed in a punch bowl or in individual glasses … and should always be served with ice as it’s intended to be a summer refresher!

And if you’re amongst friends … we will gladly make you up a Pitcher of Pimms! Cheers!