Similar to the Summer Pimm’s cocktail, I was first introduced to Winter Pimm’s while living in England. Ah, England! Such a magical place.
Friends encouraged me to try the hot beverage one night in a country pub. So, in the cozy environment out of the cold, by the glow of the blazing fire and laughs all around, I tried it. And what a wonderful warm treat it was.Taking my time in sipping my cup, I found it to be a delightful refreshment that I knew I wanted to bring home with me. And so, from Olde England to New England, here is how to make Winter Pimm’s.
You can make your own Winter Pimm’s cold or warm, but let’s start with how to make it warm because, brrr! It’s cold outside!
Ingredients:
Pimm’s No. 1
Apple Cider
Brandy
Cinnamon sticks (cloves or star anise optional)
A slice of orange or apple
Warmed Method:
Gently warm the Pimm’s, brandy, apple cider and cinnamon sticks in a saucepan. Do not bring to a boil!
I combined all the ingredients in a double boiler to make sure I didn’t overdo it, as I am prone to heat things too quickly and too high. I used two cups of apple cider and one shot each of the Pimm’s and brandy. You can, of course, make yours stronger. I threw in the cinnamon sticks but I placed the whole cloves and star anise in a metal tea strainer so that those little pieces didn’t get all over the place and it would be easier to pour out. I highly recommend this method.
Once warmed, garnish with either an orange or apple slice on your mug and take a fetching picture. Dunk the garnish in the cup once you’re ready to sip and enjoy this mulled drink in your favorite comfy spot, under a cozy blanket or around a table with friends.
Cold Method:
Fill a pitcher with ice. Add Pimm’s, brandy and apple cider or juice using a 1:3 ratio of the Pimm’s to the juice. Add orange and apple slices and cinnamon sticks to your heart’s content. Top off with ginger ale, a little Prosecco or sparkling cranberry juice for a little fizz if you’re feeling extra festive. Serve in glasses, clink them together with friends and enjoy!
I will be enjoying the warmed version this winter. It’s already been cold and snowy here in southern New England, so, hopefully, it’ll remain that way. The chill outside makes for warmth inside - whether in drink form or atmosphere form or under a blanket-form - appreciated all the more.
