What to Mix with Pimm’s: 10 Essential Pairings for the Perfect Summer Drink

Introduction
Pimm’s No.1 is the quintessence of British summer: a refreshing gin-based liqueur infused with secret botanicals. But its magic truly comes alive when paired with the right mixers and garnishes. Whether you’re hosting a garden party, a rooftop BBQ, or simply savouring a sundowner on the patio, knowing what to mix with Pimm’s transforms one bottle into a versatile, crowd-pleasing cocktail. In this guide, you’ll discover ten essential mixers—from classic cloudy lemonade to creative spritzes—and learn tips for ratios, flavour twists and presentation so every jug you pour becomes an Instagram-worthy celebration of sun, fruit and fizz.

1. Classic Cloudy Lemonade

The timeless companion to Pimm’s, cloudy lemonade delivers sweet-tart balance and effervescent fizz.

• Ratio: 1 part Pimm’s : 3 parts lemonade
• Why It Works: The crisp lemon flavour highlights Pimm’s citrus and herbal notes without overpowering.
• Pro Tip: Chill both ingredients thoroughly and fill your glass or jug with plenty of ice to slow dilution.

2. Ginger Ale or Ginger Beer

Spicy ginger mixers add warmth and complexity, perfect for those who prefer a hint of bite.

• Ratio: 1 : 2.5 (Pimm’s to ginger ale) or 1 : 2 for ginger beer
• Why It Works: The ginger’s heat accentuates Pimm’s secret spices, creating a layered, autumn-ready twist.
• Pro Tip: Garnish with a sliver of fresh ginger or a twist of lime to amplify the zing.

3. Lemonade Cordial + Sparkling Water

A budget-friendly riff on cloudy lemonade—ideal if you have a soda-maker or cordial in the fridge.

• Formula: 1 part lemonade cordial, 2 parts chilled sparkling water, 1 part Pimm’s
• Why It Works: You control sweetness and fizz, making it lighter and less cloying on hot days.
• Pro Tip: Add a splash of elderflower cordial for floral sweetness and extra depth.

4. Iced Tea Variations

Tea lends tannic backbone and tea-specific flavours that play beautifully with Pimm’s botanicals.

• Black Tea Blend: Strong Earl Grey or English Breakfast, cooled and mixed at 1 : 2 (Pimm’s : tea).
• Fruit Tea: Hibiscus or peach-infused tea for a red-hued, fruity spritzer (1 : 2.5).
• Pro Tip: Brew tea double–strength and chill overnight; strain into your Pimm’s pitcher for a polished finish.

5. Sparkling Water + Fresh Fruit

For a lighter, lower-calorie serve, top Pimm’s with soda water and let fresh fruit shine.

• Ratio: 1 part Pimm’s : 3 parts soda water
• Why It Works: You taste Pimm’s in all its glory, with cucumber, orange and mint providing natural aromatics.
• Pro Tip: Freeze slices of fruit (berries, citrus) in ice cubes—these keep your drink cold and garnish in one.

6. Flavoured Sodas and Tonics

Stepping beyond lemon, experiment with apple soda, elderflower tonic or Mediterranean tonic water.

• Ratio: 1 : 2 or 1 : 3, depending on sweetness and bitterness
• Why It Works: Apple sodas complement Pimm’s orchard fruit notes, while tonics add a sophisticated dryness.
• Pro Tip: Choose a tonic with quinine–forward bitterness for contrast, then soften with a hint of mint.

7. Seasonal Fruit Juices

Leverage summer fruit to craft colourful, vitamin-rich twists.

• Apple or Pear Juice: Use 1 : 2.5 for a gently sweet, orchard-inspired serve.
• White Grape or Peach Nectar: Mix 1 : 2 for a full–bodied, dessert-style Pimm’s.
• Pro Tip: Shake Pimm’s and juice with ice in a cocktail shaker, then strain for a silky texture.

8. Cucumber Tonic or Soda

Cucumber-flavoured mixers amplify Pimm’s signature cucumber garnish for an ultra-fresh profile.

• Ratio: 1 : 3 (Pimm’s to cucumber soda)
• Why It Works: The vegetal coolness of cucumber soda mirrors Pimm’s botanical edge, making it exceptionally refreshing.
• Pro Tip: Add a splash of lime juice and a sprig of mint for a mock-G&T hybrid that’s all summer.

9. Elderflower Presse or Cordial

Elderflower’s heady floral notes elevate Pimm’s herbal complexity.

• Ratio with Presse: 1 : 2.5
• Ratio with Cordial + Soda: 1 part cordial : 4 parts soda, then 1 part Pimm’s
• Why It Works: Elderflower brings a honey-like sweetness that rounds out Pimm’s slight bitterness.
• Pro Tip: Float edible flowers or delicate herb sprigs (thyme, basil) for an elegant garnish.

10. Pimm’s Fizz and Champagne Cocktails

For festive occasions, swap your mixer for sparkling wine or Prosecco.

• Pimm’s Fizz: 1 part Pimm’s : 2 parts Prosecco, served in a flute with a lemon twist.
• Cocktail Variation: Add a dash of bitters, a few berries and top with bubbly for celebratory sparkle.
• Pro Tip: Chill all components and rinse glasses in cold water before pouring to preserve effervescence.

Conclusion
Pimm’s isn’t just a single-mixer summer staple—it’s a versatile base waiting for your creativity. From the classic cloudy-lemonade blend to sophisticated elderflower and champagne fizzes, these ten mixers ensure your Pimm’s remains fresh, affordable and endlessly adaptable. Experiment with ratios, seasonal produce and garnishes to discover your perfect Pimm’s-and-mixer combo. Cheers to sunny afternoons, garden gatherings and the art of the perfect Pimm’s mix!

Top 10 Questions & Answers

1. What is the classic mixer for Pimm’s?
   Cloudy lemonade at a 1 : 3 ratio (Pimm’s : lemonade) for the traditional taste.
2. Can I use ginger beer instead of lemonade?
   Yes—mix 1 part Pimm’s with 2 parts ginger beer for a spicy twist.
3. How do I make a lighter Pimm’s cocktail?
   Use 1 : 3 Pimm’s to soda water with fresh fruit and herbs for a low-calorie serve.
4. Is it OK to mix Pimm’s with tea?
   Absolutely—strong black or fruit tea at 1 : 2 ratio creates a refined iced tea-style drink.
5. What fruit juices go well with Pimm’s?
   Apple, pear, white grape or peach juices at 1 : 2.5 offer fruity complexity.
6. How do I incorporate elderflower?
   Add elderflower presse 1 : 2.5, or mix 1 part cordial, 4 parts soda, then Pimm’s for floral notes.
7. Can I make Pimm’s cocktails for parties?
   Yes—batch Pimm’s and mixer in large pitchers, then top up ice and garnish per glass.
8. What sparkling wine pairs best with Pimm’s?
   Prosecco or a dry Champagne works beautifully for a festive Pimm’s fizz.
9. How do I keep Pimm’s cocktails cold without diluting?
   Use fruit-infused ice cubes or reusable ice blocks to chill without watering down.
10. What herbs garnish Pimm’s best?
    Mint, basil, thyme or edible flowers add aroma, color and a gourmet finish.