The summer cup (or fruit cup) is a quintessentially British concoction with roots deep in the heart of England’s sedate garden parties on sunlit afternoons.
This delightful blend of gin and a medley of herbs, spices, and fruits is usually mixed with lemonade. The best summer cups capture the essence of a British summer, where rain never stops our fun.
As a discerning gin lover, enjoying a gin-based fruit cup captures the very spirit of summertime. Move over, Pimms; our relationship is on thin ice.
Best Summer Cups
For the ultimate refreshment for sun-soaked garden parties, here are the best summer cups that encapsulate the British summer.
1. Sipsmith London Cup
Overview
- Distiller: Sipsmith
- ABV: 29.5% (59 Proof)
- Country: England
- Colour: Rose
Review
Sipsmith offers a summer cup that’s a harmonious blend of their London Dry Gin with a host of aromatic botanicals and spices such as tea and lemon verbena.
On The Nose
Caramel with a hint of burnt orange and citrus zest.
On The Palate
A delightful dance of juniper and citrus followed by a medley of summer fruits, marmalade and subtle spice. English garden party in a bottle; wasps are optional.
Best Served
Sipsmith London Cup is best enjoyed over ice with lemonade and a slice of orange. A sprig of mint wouldn’t go amiss.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
2. Plymouth Gin Fruit Cup
Overview
- Distiller: Plymouth Gin
- ABV: 30% (60 Proof)
- Country: England
- Colour: Rich Red/Brown
Review
With its rich maritime history, Plymouth Gin brings forth a fruit cup that’s as refreshing as the sea breeze and rich with delicate fruits.
On The Nose
Citrus-forward with a touch of sweet berries.
On The Palate
The juniper is pronounced, complemented by a burst of citrus and a lingering sweetness of summer fruits. I like the bittersweet cherry vanilla finish.
Best Served
Pair with lemonade, or try with ginger ale, cucumber, and a slice of lime for something spicier.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
3. Cotswolds Summer Cup
Overview
- Distiller: Cotswolds
- ABV: 25% (50 Proof)
- Country: England
- Colour: Rich Berry
Review
From the rolling hills of the Cotswolds comes a fruity summer cup that pairs gin with fruity Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez sherries.
On The Nose
Rich fruits with a touch of floral notes.
On The Palate
A beautiful juniper forward, with fresh herbs and spices richened by sherried fruits and spices mid-palate. The finish is fruity and bittersweet.
Best Served
Mix as a traditional fruit cup with lemonade, strawberries, mint, and fresh summer fruits for a delicious long drink.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
4. Ableforth’s Summer Fruit Cup
Overview
- Distiller: Ableforth’s
- ABV: 31.2% (62.4 Proof)
- Country: England
- Colour: Clear
Review
Ableforth’s, known for its innovative spirits, offers a summer fruit cup that’s a delightful twist on the classic by blending strawberries, mint, cucumber, and orange.
On The Nose
Ripe summer fruits with a hint of spice.
On The Palate
The taste is a riot of summer fruits, complemented by the warmth of spices and a touch of juniper. This is a fruit cup you’ll find hard to resist.
Best Served
Enjoy it with lemonade, fresh berries, and a slice of orange. It is a modern classic in the world of gin-based summer cups and would even work in a Sangria!
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
5. Reverend Hubert Summer Cup
Overview
- Distiller: Reverend Hubert
- ABV: 20% (40 Proof)
- Country: England
- Colour: Rich Red
Review
Reverend Hubert, a name that evokes old-world charm, brings forth a summer cup that’s both traditional and unique due to its blend of plums and pomegranates.
On The Nose
Earthy with a touch of citrus.
On The Palate
The taste is a beautiful blend of earthy botanicals, bright citrus, and a touch of sweetness. It’s a cup that takes me back in time.
Best Served
I recommend this beauty is best served with quality tonic water, ice and a handful of strawberries. Old-world elegance in a glass.
Pricing & Info
You can check the latest pricing, product information, and order online.
Ingrid’s Top Pick
Sipsmith London Cup
Sipsmith London Cup is my top pick fruit cup due to its ability to retain its gin-based roots of juniper and citrus fused with summer fruits, marmalade and subtle spice.
Conclusion
Rain, wind and sometimes shine, sipping on a fruit cup is a delicious way to enjoy a classic British summer with long sunny afternoons and garden parties.
As the sun sets on my brief but delicious journey through the best summer cups, this guide should be an excellent starting point to find your perfect bottle.
Further Reading
Below are some additional articles from The Drinks Geek blog. We write articles on several fascinating areas of drinks, including different brands, drink types, cocktail recipes and more.
