Toasting Kate and Wills in Royal Style

Many of the details about the royal wedding reception have remained shrouded in secrecy.  We do know that the menu will include finger foods that can be consumed in no more than two bites.  (It can be so awkward to try to speak to the Earl of Wessex or David Beckham when one’s mouth is full of canapé.)   

As for beverages, a wedding is not complete without champagne.  The royal couple will serve a non-vintage Pol Roger, which is apparently an unorthodox choice.  Although it was Winston Churchill’s preferred bubbly and it is a popular champagne in England, Pol Roger has never been served at a royal wedding.

Sadly, guests wishing for a nice cold brew to wash down their hors d’oeuvres are out of luck.  Despite the fact that beers have been created in honor of the royal couple – including “Kiss Me Kate” ale and the “Windsor Knot” – the Prince and Princess have decided that beer is déclassé for an event at which the queen will be in attendance.

Luckily, those of us whose invitations have gone missing in the mail are free to drink whatever we fancy.  The extremely early hour precludes serious, heavy imbibing.  Mimosas are a wonderful choice, as are any cocktails involving champagne or sparkling wine. 

But to be quintessentially British, consider the Pimm’s Cup.  This light, gin-based spirit flavored with fruit and herbs is a classic summertime quaff across the pond.  It is generally found at garden parties, picnics, Wimbledon – that sort of thing.

Sean Colgan, head of the beverage program at , recently mixed up a Pimm’s for me.  He explained that the liqueur was created in the 19th century by James Pimm, who served it at his oyster house as a tonic for good health.

A Pimm’s Cup is typically made with lemonade or soda and garnished with fresh fruit, cucumber and sometimes, mint.  It has a low alcohol content, which makes it perfect for sipping on a hot afternoon at the races – or at 6 a.m. on the living room couch.

Pimm’s Cup has never really caught on in America, but perhaps it’s time for it to have its moment in the sun here.  Colgan is thinking of featuring the cocktail this summer at the restaurant.  “We could do “Pimm’s on the Patio,” he said. 

That’s definitely something to look forward to.  Until then, here is his recipe, which I have slightly adapted.  Cheers!

Pimm’s Number 1 Cup

1 ½ oz. Pimm’s Number 1

3 oz. lemonade

Sprite or 7 Up

Lime, orange, strawberries and cucumbers, sliced

Mint leaves

Mix Pimm’s and lemonade, top with soda.  Add ice.  Garnish with fruit, cucumber and mint.