Is it Pimm's o'clock yet?

It's been raining all night and day here in Atlanta and I can't help but echo Amanda's yearning for warmer weather. 

My most favorite drink of all time is a Pimm's Cup. Most people say this is a summer drink, probably because it's the official drink of Wimbledon, but I think it's just too good to only drink in the summer. 

[doing a little research at Leon's Full Service in Decatur. So good.] 

Pimm's No. 1 is a gin-based liquor made in England. 

The best part is - it's super easy to make at home! 

Traditionally, the English put 1 part Pimm's No. 1 and 3 parts chilled lemonade. Then throw in some cut fruit (strawberries, cucumbers, lemon) and mint leaves. 

If sparkling lemonade doesn't strike you, you can do an easy swap for ginger ale. (Although technically, this would make your beverage a Pimm's Ginger.) 

[does this look like a little happy family or what?] 

I recently learned that Pimm's was first made by James Pimm in 1823, an owner of an oyster bar in London, to aid in digestion. So, it's healthy to drink. Or whatever you need to justify this deliciousness.

[For more recipes, check out Pimm's website.]

So what are you waiting for? Throw all that goodness into a glass and look at your watch -- "It's Pimm's o'clock!" 

Pimm's Original:
1 part Pimm's No. 1
3 parts chilled lemonade
Add mint, cucumber, orange and strawberry

Pimm's Ginger:
1 part Pimm's No. 1
3 parts ginger ale 
Add a slice of lemon and a sprig of mint


That does it for drink week! Did you try any of these? Beer? Hot Toddy's? What's your go-to beverage?