The Fruit Cup, a quintessentially British summer drink, is a refreshing and versatile cocktail that has evolved over the years. While the most famous example is the Pimm’s Cup, the tradition of the fruit cup extends to numerous variations. This recipe, known as Fruit Cup No. 1, offers a gin-based alternative that boasts a more robust flavour profile, reminiscent of older, more potent versions of classic fruit cups.
A Brief History of Fruit Cups
Fruit cups emerged in Victorian England as a way to create thirst-quenching beverages using a mix of fruit, liqueurs, and spices. These drinks were initially homemade, designed for private enjoyment. James Pimm, a London-based oyster house owner, is credited with popularizing the concept with his Pimm’s No. 1 Cup, a gin-based concoction that became synonymous with the category. Pimm’s was initially created to aid in the digestion of oysters. Other versions of Pimm’s were created, using different bases like Scotch whisky, brandy, rum, rye whiskey, and vodka, but many of those versions have been discontinued.
Fruit Cup No. 1: A More Potent Take
Fruit Cup No. 1 draws inspiration from the Pimm’s Cup but adds a richer and more complex character by using a combination of gin, red vermouth, and orange liqueur. This blend delivers a more pronounced punch than the modern Pimm’s No. 1, which has seen a reduction in its alcohol content over time.
Ingredients:
- 25 ml London Dry Gin
- 25 ml Red Vermouth
- 25 ml Orange Curaçao
- 75 ml Ginger Ale
- 2 dashes of Angostura Bitters
- Garnish: lemon, orange, and strawberry slices; mint sprig; borage (optional)
Preparation:
- Chill the Glass: Begin by pre-chilling a Collins glass. This will help to keep your drink colder for longer.
- Prepare the Garnish: Slice the lemon, orange, and strawberry. If you have fresh borage flowers, prepare those as well.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the gin, red vermouth, and orange curaçao into the chilled glass.
- Add Ice: Half-fill the glass with ice.
- Incorporate Initial Garnish: Place a citrus slice and a couple of mint leaves into the glass.
- Top with Ice and Ginger Ale: Fill the glass to the brim with ice. Top with the ginger ale and add the angostura bitters.
- Final Garnish: Complete the drink by adding the remaining garnishes.
A Symphony of Flavors
The combination of ingredients in Fruit Cup No. 1 creates a well-balanced and refreshing cocktail:
- Gin: The base spirit provides a herbaceous and botanical foundation. A London Dry gin works best, allowing the other flavors to shine.
- Red Vermouth: Adds a layer of complexity and a slightly bitter note that balances the sweetness.
- Orange Curaçao: This liqueur provides citrus notes that enhance the overall flavour profile. The choice of curaçao can dramatically influence the drink, as each brand has unique nuances.
- Ginger Ale: The fizzy ginger ale adds a refreshing, spicy kick and a touch of sweetness.
- Angostura Bitters: A few dashes of bitters adds an extra layer of complexity.
Variations and Customization
While this recipe provides a solid foundation, feel free to experiment with variations to suit your preferences:
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less boozy option, reduce the amounts of gin, red vermouth, and orange curaçao to 22.5 ml each, while increasing the ginger ale.
- Lemonade Option: For a sweeter option, substitute the ginger ale with sparkling lemonade.
- Cucumber Addition: Adding a few slices of cucumber can introduce a fresh, crisp element to the drink. Some recipes suggest muddling the cucumber rounds with simple syrup before adding other ingredients.
- Herbal Infusion: Infuse your chosen fruits and herbs in the gin for several hours before adding other ingredients.
- Other Fruits: You can add other fruits such as apples, lime, or other berries to the drink.
Serving Suggestions
Fruit Cup No. 1 is a perfect summer drink for various occasions. Serve it at:
- Garden Parties: A refreshing option for outdoor gatherings.
- Brunches: A lighter alternative to heavier cocktails.
- Afternoon Refreshments: Ideal for a relaxing afternoon.
- Wimbledon Celebrations: A great way to celebrate the tennis season.
A Note on Quality
Using high-quality ingredients will significantly impact the final flavor of your Fruit Cup No. 1. Opt for a good quality London Dry gin, premium red vermouth, and a top-shelf orange curaçao. Freshly sliced fruit and herbs will enhance the taste and visual appeal of the cocktail.
The Enduring Appeal of the Fruit Cup
The Fruit Cup continues to be a popular choice, as it is a versatile and easy-to-make drink. Whether you’re a fan of the classic Pimm’s Cup or looking to explore new variations like Fruit Cup No. 1, this style of cocktail offers a wonderful way to celebrate the summer months. This gin-based version, with its nod to the past, ensures a refreshing and satisfying experience for those who appreciate a more complex and potent cocktail.
Enjoy your Fruit Cup No. 1 responsibly, and feel free to adapt it to your liking for a personalized summer cooler.
