Pimm’s No. 1, my favorite gin-based liqueur, dates all the way back to the mid 1800s. Subsequent to it’s invention, there were other “cups,” numbered 2 through 6, varieties based on other archetypes such as brandy, rum and other spirits. But the No. 1, a rusty tonic with bright citrusy and medicinal bitter notes, is the one that towers over all the rest.

Our simple version of the classic summertime cocktail includes muddled cucumber and Arkansas strawberries that elevate it to a whole new level. Barely sweet, heady, with bright red berries and fresh mint that scream “SUMMER HAS ARRIVED!”

Thump Thump!.

it's hard out here FOR A PIMM'S

Serves 1 | Prep Time 15 Minutes

INGREDIENTS

1 cup sugar

2 sprigs fresh rosemary

2-inch-thick slice of unpeeled cucumber, sliced and divided

4 fresh strawberries, sliced and divided

1 ½ ounces Pimm’s No. 1

½ ounce gin, preferably Artanical

1 ounce lemon juice

Sparkling water, preferably Mountain Valley

Lemon wedges and Mint, for garnish

TECHNIQUE

Make a herby simple syrup: in a small pan, heat sugar and 1 cup water with rosemary springs; boil until sugar is melted. Allow to cool.

In a cocktail shaker, muddle the cucumber and strawberries. Add the Pimm’s, gin, lemon juice and ¾-ounce simple syrup. Shake.

Strain into a Collins glass filled with ice. Top with sparkling water. Garnish with cucumber slices, strawberry slices, lemon wedge and mint sprig.