Heart-Shaped Box

Freddy Schwenk, Chauhan Ale & Masala House | Nashville

heart-shaped box pimms riff cocktail recipe

“I’m a big less-is-more guy,” says Freddy Schwenk. “So naturally, this drink is right in my wheelhouse.” While layering gin on gin isn’t everyone’s definition of less, Schwenk’s heady variation of a Pimm’s Cup gets a modern flavor boost from lemongrass and raspberries, all topped with bitter lemon soda. The name is inspired by Nirvana’s song of the same name, but the flavor is, decidedly, 21st-century.

Ingredients

Serving: 1

  • 1 1/2 ounces Pimm's No. 1
  • 1 1/2 ounces Pimm's No. 1
  • 1/2 ounce gin (preferably Ransom Old Tom)
  • 1/2 ounce gin (preferably Ransom Old Tom)
  • 1/4 ounce lime juice
  • 1/4 ounce lime juice
  • 1/4 ounce lemongrass syrup
  • 1/4 ounce lemongrass syrup
  • handful raspberries
  • handful raspberries
  • 2 cucumber slices
  • 2 cucumber slices
  • splash bitter lemon soda (preferably Fever Tree)
  • splash bitter lemon soda (preferably Fever Tree)

Garnish: fresh raspberries

Directions
  1. Muddle raspberries and cucumber slices.
  2. Mix with Pimm's, gin, lime and lemongrass syrup.
  3. Shake, then double strain into tall Collins glass.
  4. Top with lemon soda.
  5. Garnish with raspberries on bamboo skewer.
Editor's Note

To make lemongrass syrup: Combine 1 part water, 1 part granulated sugar, and 4 lemongrass stalks in a saucepan on medium heat. Bring water to a boil and remove from heat. Let cool for 2 hours, then strain lemongrass out.