Cocktails Inspired by Literature

Literature has long inspired the realms of art, film, and fashion. But what about cocktails? Combining the world of books with mixology creates a unique and delightful way to enjoy your favourite novels.

We have previously written about cocktails inspired by movies/films, but here are some cocktails inspired by literature, perfect for your next book club meeting or a cosy evening at home.

1. The Great Gatsby - Mint Julep

F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic, "The Great Gatsby," epitomises the Roaring Twenties, with its lavish parties and opulent lifestyles. The Mint Julep, a cocktail of bourbon, mint, and sugar, is famously associated with this era and even makes an appearance in the novel.

Ingredients:

50ml bourbon

8-10 mint leaves

1 teaspoon sugar

Soda water

Crushed ice

Mint sprig, for garnish

Method:

Muddle the mint leaves and sugar together in a glass.

Fill the glass with crushed ice and add the bourbon.

Stir well and top with a splash of soda water.

Garnish with a mint sprig.

2. Alice in Wonderland - Mad Hatter’s Tea Party

Lewis Carroll’s "Alice in Wonderland" is whimsical and surreal, much like this cocktail inspired by the Mad Hatter’s tea party. This gin-based concoction incorporates tea, a nod to the famous tea party scene.

Ingredients:

50ml gin

25ml elderflower liqueur

75ml brewed and chilled Earl Grey tea

15ml lemon juice

15ml sugar syrup

Ice

Lemon twist, for garnish

Method:

Brew a pot of Earl Grey tea and let it cool.

In a shaker, combine the gin, elderflower liqueur, tea, lemon juice, and sugar syrup with ice.

Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice.

Garnish with a lemon twist.

3. Harry Potter - Butterbeer

J.K. Rowling’s "Harry Potter" series introduced the magical drink Butterbeer to the world. While the books describe it as a warming beverage, this cocktail version is a delightful mix of butterscotch and cream soda, perfect for a sweet treat.

Ingredients:

60ml butterscotch schnapps

60ml vanilla vodka

150ml cream soda

Whipped cream, for topping

Method:

In a glass, mix the butterscotch schnapps and vanilla vodka.

Add the cream soda and stir gently.

Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream.

4. The Old Man and the Sea - Daiquiri

Ernest Hemingway’s love for daiquiris is well-documented, making it the perfect drink to pair with his novella "The Old Man and the Sea." This classic Cuban cocktail is simple yet refreshing.

Ingredients:

50ml white rum

25ml lime juice

15ml sugar syrup

Ice

Lime wheel, for garnish

Method:

Combine the rum, lime juice, and sugar syrup in a shaker with ice.

Shake well and strain into a chilled glass.

Garnish with a lime wheel.

5. Pride and Prejudice - Regency Punch

Jane Austen’s "Pride and Prejudice" transports readers to the early 19th century. Regency Punch, a favourite during Austen’s time, is a delightful blend of citrus, tea, and alcohol, ideal for any elegant gathering.

Ingredients:

100ml brandy

100ml rum

100ml red wine

50ml orange juice

50ml lemon juice

50ml brewed and cooled black tea

2 tablespoons sugar

Ice

Orange and lemon slices, for garnish

Method:

In a large bowl, dissolve the sugar in the orange and lemon juices.

Add the brandy, rum, red wine, and tea.

Stir well and chill in the refrigerator.

Serve over ice, garnished with slices of orange and lemon.

Conclusion

These literary-inspired cocktails offer a delightful way to bring your favourite books to life. Whether you’re hosting a themed party or simply indulging in a solo reading session, these drinks are sure to enhance your literary experience. So, mix up a cocktail, settle in with a good book, and toast to the wonderful world of literature. In fact, this might be a good social event for a book club. So, cheers to your next meeting.