Pimm's No.1

The Original British Summer Classic.
There are drinks, and then there are Pimm’s afternoons. Born in London in the 1840s, Pimm’s No.1 began life as James Pimm’s house creation at his oyster bar — a secret blend of gin, botanicals, fruit and spices designed to accompany a good plate of oysters. More than 180 years later, it has become one of Britain's great summer traditions, poured by the jug and shared over ice with lemonade, cucumber, orange, strawberries and mint.

The magic is in that slightly mysterious flavour. Pimm’s No.1 is a gin-based spirit drink, with bittersweet caramelised orange, fresh citrus, herbs and warming spices wrapped into a complex, reddish-brown drink. It is fruity without being a fruit liqueur, herbal without becoming an amaro, and just bitter enough to keep things interesting. At 25% ABV, it is made to be lengthened rather than sipped neat — and that is exactly where Pimm’s comes into its own.

For Ireland, Pimm’s is an easy bottle to rediscover. It turns a few simple ingredients into something that feels like an occasion: a sunny afternoon, a barbecue, a garden gathering or a table full of friends. And you don't need a grand Wimbledon-style garden party to enjoy it — a jug in the middle of the table and plenty of ice will do nicely.

Why we love it:
Pimm’s is wonderfully difficult to categorise, which is part of its charm. The combination of orange, herbs, spice and gentle bitterness makes it instantly recognisable, while lemonade transforms it into something light, refreshing and seriously easy to share. Add cucumber, strawberries and mint and suddenly a simple mixed drink becomes a proper summer ritual. It is nostalgic, sociable and still remarkably good fun.