When it comes to cocktails, you have your base liquors that are like your basics in your closet (think jeans, white tees, flats). Then there are specific liquors and liqueurs that you can mix in that can bring your outfit — I mean cocktail — to the next level and add oomph! But sometimes, it can be a little impractical because, really, who wants to buy an expensive bottle of booze they use once a year?
I have a cocktail today with just such a sprit that you will want to grab, but will quickly be added to the rotation in your home bar! Have you ever heard of Pimms? Even the most novice of cocktail sippers have probably come across the Pimms Cup.
If images of garden parties, polo matches, and high tea come to mind when you hear Pimms, you wouldn’t be mistaken! This drink is practically the national drink of Summer in England. No, really… they drink it like water during the warmer months!
Despite the refreshing qualities of this drink, how often are you to crack open the bottle of Pimms to make these drinks? Rather then pass up this delicious spirit, I have an alternative concoction for when you can’t handle one more Pimm’s Cup — meet the Pimm and Proper. And yes, pun is fully intended.
Pimm and Proper
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 oz Pimms
- 1/4 oz St. Germain or other elderflower liqueur
- 1/4 cucumber, muddled
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 1 oz rose syrup
- 2 oz club soda
Directions
Add the cucumber to a shaker and mash (and mash some more). Add the remaining ingredients minus the club soda into the shaker and shake with ice. Strain into a glass. You may need to use a tea strainer to keep out the cucumber bits. Top with soda and stir. Using a vegetable peeler, peel a cucumber length-wise. Using a pick, thread a cucumber, curling it as you go. Garnish with cucumber and organic rosebud (oh you fancy, huh?).
Rose Syrup
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar Sugar
- 1 cup minus 1 oz Water
- 1 oz Rose Water
Directions
Add sugar and water to pot over high heat. Bring to a boil and turn off stove. Add the rose water. Let cool before using. Refrigerate any unused syrup for up to 1 month.
Happy imbibing!
Photography, Recipe, and Styling by Ashley Rose Conway.
p.s. get more cocktail recipes here!
