If the British summer ever gets into full swing, you know exactly how to finish the question, ‘anyone for a glass of ‘………….’. Pimm’s debuted in the early 1800s, crafted by James Pimm as a tonic to aid digestion at his oyster bar in East London. Indeed, the tankard it was served in was known as a No.1 Cup – hence the name.
The classic Pimm’s ‘No. 1 Cup’ is a gin liqueur-based drink with a secret blend of herbs and spices. Today, it’s commonly served with lemonade, plenty of ice, and a mix of fresh fruit, making it the ultimate summer punch. The exact recipe is a secret, which has invited a host of other producers to have a crack at their own versions. This has resulted in some disasters, but also some worthy competitors… and as you’ll see, perhaps even some superior creations? But first, let’s start with the classic Pimm’s so we know what we’re comparing to.
Pimm’s No.1 Cup
The original, the benchmark, the irreplaceable? We’ll see. But what can’t be disputed is its position as the gold standard of British summer drinks. Its mahogany hue, with aromas of baked strawberry, orange rind, cooking spices, and a hint of medicinal herbs, ends with a delightful bitter quinine bite. Dark brown with a reddish tint, Pimm’s No. 1 offers a subtle blend of spice and citrus flavours. Quintessentially refreshing… but can we do better?
Size: 1L
ABV: 25%
Find here: £13 (usually much more!)
5 Great Alternatives to Pimm’s
ALDI Austin's Classic Summer Punch Spirit Drink
This is much cheaper alternative has a cult following for being not just an equal to Pimm’s, but for many people, better! Which? rated it number one, ahead of the original and all other own brand versions, praised for the refreshing flavour bursting with fruits. The harmonious balance and surprising layers of flavour is quite remarkable for the money. Try it and be the judge for yourself!
Size: 700ml
ABV: 25%
Find here: £7.99
Tesco Summer Cup
Tesco’s attempt is a fragrant blend of aromatic botanicals, zesty fruits, and delicate spices. With a rich cherry red hue, it looks and smells almost like Pimm’s but the taste reveals a clear difference. This is slightly spicier, more herbal and more bitter. But when mixed with the classic lemonade pairing the balance ends up about right. It’s somewhat simple with no fireworks, but absolutely does the job for under £10.
Size: 700ml
ABV: 25%
Find here: £8.50
Ableforth’s Summer Fruit Cup
Ableforth’s crack at a summer hit is a thing of beauty. At 31%, it’s punchier than Pimm’s but the alcohol is integrated softly into the whirlwind of rich fruits, lofty herbaceous notes and pronounced bitterness. Crafted by macerating strawberries, cucumber, orange, and mint in pure wheat spirit, it’s then re-distilled at room temperature. Perfect for Campari fans.
Size: 500ml
ABV: 31.2%
Find here: £17.95 (usually more!)
Sipsmith London Cup
What a bottle. Sipsmith London Cup offers a unique twist on the classic summer drink, infusing their signature London Dry with a host of interesting botanicals including tea, citrus, caramel, borage and verbena. With a lighter colour in the glass and flavours reminiscent of cola cubes and wild strawberry sweets, it finishes with a bitter bark bite and a pleasant weight from the higher alcohol content. Refreshing and distinct, it’s great with tonic or ginger beer.
Size: 700ml
ABV: 29.5%
Find here: £21.94
Cotswolds Summer Cup
This blend features two sherries added to the gin base, giving it a tangy kick. And you can tell it’s a real quality gin too. With a darker treacle hue and a bittersweet, caramel flavour, it boasts plenty of zest and a proper boozy punch. Big helpings of red fruit are balanced by cardamom, juniper, and lavender. Though not as thirst-quenching as Pimm’s, it’s still very quaffable. It’s very elegant inside and out
Size: 700ml
ABV: 25%
Find here: £23
If you want more super summery drinks, try these superb simple rum cocktails.