As I explained in my last KegWorks cocktail post, as new cocktail inventory comes in, Dave is educating us on obscure and refined spirits, in an attempt to make us better, more knowledgeable employees.

Dave and Tim recently attended a cocktail trade show in New Orleans, and since their return they have had a ton of fabulous drink recipes to share. This week – the Pimm’s Cup, which they had at the Napoleon in the Big Easy.

Its main ingredient, Pimm’s No. 1, is a gin-based beverage that was invented in 1823 as a health drink. Supposedly, the recipe is secret and only known to six people. Since, I am not in that elite group, I can’t tell you exactly what’s in it. What I can tell you – it has a dark tea color with a reddish tint, and has hints of spice and citrus fruit. It is 25% alcohol (50-proof) by volume.

Pimm’s may be hard to find in the United States, and although we always suggest that you use the original ingredients called for, bartenders that can’t find Pimm’s usually mix one part gin with one part red Vermouth and ½ part to 1 part of triple sec or Orange Curacao.

The Pimm’s Cup is, as Dave put it, “What a Mint Julep is to the Kentucky Derby, Pimm’s Cup is to Wimbledon Tennis in England.”

The recipe that we had was fantastic! It’s the exact recipe from Napoleon’s in New Orleans. I could see myself sipping it on a hot summer’s day, and of course, if I ever make it to Wimbledon someday.

Here’s the recipe:

Fill a tall 12 oz glass with ice
Add 1¼ oz Pimm’s No. 1
3 oz lemonade
Top off with 7-up
Garnish with cucumber

Refreshing, sweet and delicious!