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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.