Frequent visitors to the site may have guessed that we’re both rather fond of Fruit Cup (Pimm’s and the like); rather fitting, given the site’s name. But one fruit cup that is often over-looked is one that is vodka, rather than gin, based; I am, of course, talking about Pimm’s (No.6) Vodka Cup. This was the sixth variety of Pimm’s to be introduced; for those who may not be familiar with the varieties, here is a quick rundown of all those that have, at some point, been available:

No.1 ‘“ Gin (1840 ‘“ Present)
No.2 ‘“ Scotch Whisky (1851 ‘“ 1970)
No.3 ‘“ Brandy (1851 ‘“ 1970)
No.3 ‘“ As a variant of the original with added spices (2005 ‘“ Present)
No.4 ‘“ Rum (1935 ‘“ 1970)
No.5 ‘“ Rye Whiskey (1964 ‘“ 1970)
No.6 ‘“ Vodka (1964 ‘“ 1970, then 1970 ‘“ Present)

The No.6 Cup was added to the line-up in the UK at the same time as No.5 (Rye); the latter had previously has a successful launch in Canada. This was a time when international business was booming and Pimm’s wanted to tap into the American Whisky and Vodka market.