Refreshing the UK: Top Summer Drinks the UK Population Enjoys
Summer in the UK brings with it a welcome opportunity to indulge in refreshing and delicious beverages. From traditional classics to modern concoctions, the Brits have a rich variety of summer drinks that they turn to when the temperatures rise. Whether you’re lounging in your garden, enjoying a picnic in the park, or hosting a summer BBQ, these drinks are sure to keep you cool and satisfied. Let’s explore the top summer drinks that the UK population enjoys a lot.
1. Pimm's No. 1 Cup
History and Origins: Pimm's No. 1 Cup is a quintessentially British drink that dates back to 1823. Invented by James Pimm, it was originally served as a health tonic.
Ingredients: Pimm's No. 1 Cup is a gin-based spirit infused with a secret blend of herbs and spices. It’s typically mixed with lemonade or ginger ale and garnished with fresh fruits such as strawberries, oranges, lemons, and mint leaves.
Why It’s Popular: Pimm's is synonymous with British summertime, particularly enjoyed at events like Wimbledon and garden parties. Its light, fruity flavor makes it a perfect refreshing drink for hot days.
2. Elderflower Cordial
History and Origins: Elderflower cordial is a traditional British drink that has been enjoyed for centuries. Elderflowers bloom in late spring, making this cordial a harbinger of summer.
Ingredients: Made from elderflower blossoms, sugar, lemon, and water, this cordial is often mixed with sparkling water, soda, or used in cocktails.
Why It’s Popular: Elderflower cordial’s delicate floral flavor and sweetness make it a refreshing non-alcoholic option. It’s also versatile, pairing well with various spirits and mixers.
3. Cider
History and Origins: Cider has a long history in the UK, with its roots going back to Roman times. The UK is one of the largest consumers and producers of cider in the world.
Ingredients: Traditional cider is made from fermented apple juice, but variations include pear cider (perry) and flavored ciders with berries or spices.
Why It’s Popular: With its crisp and refreshing taste, cider is a perfect summer drink. It's commonly enjoyed at pubs, festivals, and picnics, offering a variety of flavors from dry to sweet.
4. Iced Tea
History and Origins: While iced tea is more commonly associated with the United States, it has become increasingly popular in the UK, especially during summer.
Ingredients: Iced tea is made by brewing tea leaves and chilling the resulting infusion. It can be sweetened with sugar or honey and flavored with lemon, peach, or other fruits.
Why It’s Popular: Iced tea provides a cooling, caffeinated alternative to hot tea. It’s refreshing, and hydrating, and can be easily customized to suit personal preferences.
5. Gin and Tonic
History and Origins: Gin and tonic is a classic British drink that originated in the 19th century. British officers in India mixed gin with tonic water to make the quinine in tonic more palatable, helping to prevent malaria.
Ingredients: A simple mix of gin, tonic water, and a wedge of lime or lemon. Various botanicals in the gin can enhance the flavor.
Why It’s Popular: This drink is light, refreshing, and perfect for summer. The bitterness of the tonic balances the botanicals in the gin, making it a sophisticated choice for a warm evening.
6. Smoothies
History and Origins: Smoothies have become a health-conscious trend worldwide, including in the UK. They are a great way to consume a variety of fruits and vegetables in a single drink.
Ingredients: Blended fruits, vegetables, yogurt, milk, or juice. Popular combinations include berries, bananas, spinach, and kale.
Why It’s Popular: Smoothies are not only delicious but also nutritious. They’re a great way to cool down while getting a boost of vitamins and minerals, making them ideal for a post-workout refreshment or a healthy snack.
7. Lemonade
History and Origins: Traditional lemonade has been a popular summer beverage for generations. Its simplicity and refreshing qualities make it a staple in many households.
Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice, water, and sugar. It can be made sparkling with the addition of soda water.
Why It’s Popular: Lemonade is a classic, refreshing drink that’s easy to make at home. Its tangy and sweet flavor profile is universally loved, making it a hit at summer gatherings and BBQs.
8. Rosé Wine
History and Origins: Rosé wine, with its origins in France, has gained immense popularity in the UK over the past few decades.
Ingredients: Made from red grapes, the skins are removed early in the fermentation process to produce a pink hue and a lighter flavor.
Why It’s Popular: Rosé is light, fruity, and refreshing, making it an excellent choice for summer. It pairs well with a variety of foods, from salads to seafood, and is often enjoyed chilled.
9. Craft Beers
History and Origins: The craft beer movement has seen a significant rise in the UK, with many breweries offering unique and seasonal brews.
Ingredients: Made from water, malt, hops, and yeast. Craft beers often include additional ingredients like fruits, spices, and herbs to create distinctive flavors.
Why It’s Popular: Craft beers offer a wide range of flavors and styles, from light lagers to fruity ales, catering to diverse tastes. Summer sees the release of many refreshing, limited-edition brews.
10. Iced Coffee
History and Origins: Iced coffee has become a popular way to enjoy coffee during the warmer months. It offers the perfect blend of refreshments and a caffeine kick.
Ingredients: Coffee brewed hot and then chilled, often served over ice with milk, cream, or flavored syrups.
Why It’s Popular: Iced coffee is a great way to stay cool while enjoying the rich flavors of coffee. It’s customizable with various flavors and milk alternatives, making it a versatile summer drink.
Conclusion
The UK's love for refreshing summer drinks is evident in the wide variety of beverages enjoyed across the nation. From the classic Pimm's No. 1 Cup and elderflower cordial to modern favorites like iced coffee and smoothies, there’s a drink for every palate. These beverages not only help beat the heat but also add a touch of enjoyment to the summer season. So, whether you’re hosting a garden party, relaxing in your backyard, or enjoying a day at the park, be sure to have one of these popular summer drinks in hand to make the most of the sunny days. Cheers!
