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Cheers, gents! 🥂✨ February has arrived, and it’s time to bid farewell to the abstinent days of Dry January and welcome the month of love, literature, and, of course, delightful libations. In the spirit of celebrating the end of that resolution and embracing the joy of reading, we bring you a literary extravaganza, where we’ll not only delve into captivating books but also pair them with the perfect beverages to make your reading experience truly exceptional. Join us on this spirited journey as we explore the harmonious union of words, drinks, and well-deserved sips! 📚🍸
1Q84 & Tokyo Twilight
Why the Pairing: The “Tokyo Twilight” cocktail is a nod to the novel’s setting and the dreamlike quality of Murakami’s storytelling. Japanese whisky brings depth and complexity, mirroring the intricate layers of “1Q84.” Umeshu adds a touch of sweetness and tartness, representing the novel’s twists and turns. Yuzu juice provides a citrusy brightness, offering a refreshing contrast, and the edible flower garnish adds a touch of surreal beauty, echoing the fantastical elements of the book. Sipping on this cocktail while navigating the alternate realities of “1Q84” will add a layer of sensory delight to your reading journey. Mix with ice and serve in a martini glass.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Japanese Whisky
- 1 oz Umeshu (Plum Wine)
- 0.5 oz Yuzu Juice
- 0.25 oz Simple Syrup
- Edible Flower for Garnish
Tegroni & Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas
Why the Pairing: Thompson’s iconic work is a wild ride through the decadence and chaos of Las Vegas, perfectly aligning with the adventurous and vibrant nature of a Tequila Negroni. The bold flavours of tequila, Campari, and vermouth in the cocktail mirror the bold and unapologetic narrative of the book. As you sip on your Tegroni, join Raoul Duke and his attorney Dr. Gonzo on their surreal journey, and let the drink enhance the immersive experience of this cult classic. The bitter notes of the Tegroni complement the unconventional storytelling, creating a pairing that’s as memorable as the journey through the desert city.
London based alchemists Maison Miles produce this spicy beverage by the bottle for a very reasonable £45.00 with free shipping!
Catcher in the Rye & Old Fashioned
Why the Pairing: “The Catcher in the Rye” follows the journey of Holden Caulfield, a young and disillusioned protagonist navigating the complexities of growing up. The Old Fashioned, with its straightforward recipe and timeless appeal, complements the novel’s introspective and reflective tone. The warmth of the whiskey mirrors Holden’s search for authenticity and connection in a world he finds phoney. Sipping an Old Fashioned while immersed in Salinger’s narrative creates a classic and contemplative reading experience, allowing you to connect with Holden’s quest for meaning and identity. 🥃📚
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey
- 1 Sugar Cube
- 2-3 Dashes Angostura Bitters
- Orange Twist for Garnish
Dune & Spicy GNT
Why the Pairing: “Dune” is known for its vast landscapes, political intrigue, and the spice melange. The Spice Infused Gin & Tonic, with its aromatic and complex flavours from the star anise and orange zest, pays homage to the spice-rich universe of Arrakis. The effervescence of the tonic water adds a refreshing touch, creating a sensory experience that resonates with the novel’s grand scale and immersive world-building. Sip on this cocktail as you delve into the interstellar adventures of “Dune” for a reading experience that’s truly out of this world. 🌌🍹
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Gin
- Tonic Water
- Orange Zest
- Star Anise (for garnish)
The Secret History & Black Manhattan
Why the Pairing: “The Secret History” is dark academia at it’s best! A tale of intellectual pursuits, dark secrets, and a group of students studying classics. The Black Manhattan, with its deep and complex flavors from the rye whiskey and amaro, mirrors the depth and intricacies of the novel’s narrative. The dark, brooding atmosphere of the cocktail aligns with the mysterious and suspenseful elements of Tartt’s work. Sip on a Black Manhattan as you immerse yourself in the intellectual allure and suspenseful drama of “The Secret History.” 🍸📖
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Rye Whiskey
- 1 oz Averna Amaro
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
- Luxardo Cherry for garnish
Elevate your reading with Bookish Pairings
As we raise our glasses to another journey through the realms of literature, we hope these bookish pairings have added a delightful twist to your reading adventures. Whether you found yourself lost in the sands of Arrakis with a Spice Infused Gin & Tonic or embraced the mysterious allure of ‘The Secret History’ with a Black Manhattan, we celebrate the marriage of stories and sips. Here’s to the magic of words, the art of mixology, and the joy of finding the perfect harmony between a well-crafted narrative and a meticulously crafted cocktail. Until the next chapter, cheers to the literary wonders that continue to enrich our lives. Happy reading and sipping, bookish gents! 📚🥂