Distilling & Drinking History Blog
Old Tom Gin “Old Tom” Gin Inspires a modern American “Old-Style Juniper Liqueur” from the Appalachians “Old Tom” Gin was a cherished libation in the 18th-century English pub scene, and is an intriguing mystique. The depiction of Old...
Drinks, Cocktails & Likör
The Queen Mother’s Cocktail From Malaria Tonic for French Legionnaires to Royal Approval In 1846, Joseph Dubonnet, a French chemist, crafted a delightful concoction that would forever change the world of aperitifs. This creation, a sweet and aromatic wine-based...
North American Distilling
Warren Gamaliel Harding A President Amidst Prohibition Warren Gamaliel Harding, the 29th President of the United States, is often remembered for his role in the post-World War I era and his approach to economic policies. However, beyond the political landscape,...
Drinking Customs, Early History
Drinking like a Scythian Spirits of the Steppe: Scythian Drinking Culture In the vast tapestry of the Eurasian steppe, the Scythians emerge as a nomadic mosaic, a confluence of tribes tracing their origins to modern-day Iran. Between 900 and 200 BCE, they roamed...
Early History, North American Distilling
The Mystery “Huichol” Stills Exploring the Distillation Heritage of Pre-Columbian Times In the heart of west-central Mexico, amidst the Huichol indigenous community, lies an ancient distilling contrivance known as the Huichol still. While its origins have...
Distilling & Drinking History Blog, Likör
The King’s Ginger A Regal Libation Crafted for Drive and Delight In 1901, King Edward VII, a vibrant leader of London society, embraced the dawn of a new era by becoming the first royal to own an automobile. His passion for driving in all weather conditions led...
North American Distilling, Drinking Culture Blog
The Blue Bell Bar Madame Lizzy’s Legacy: The Blue Bell Saloon The Blue Bell Bar in Guthrie, Oklahoma Territory, holds a storied past that mirrors the rugged tales of the American West. Established during the Oklahoma Land Run in 1889, Guthrie swiftly transformed...
Drinking Gods, Myths & Fairytales, Early History
Bacchanalia An ancient Roman festival venerating the God of Wine Bacchanalia, an ancient Roman festival venerating Bacchus, the god of wine and fertility, stands as a vibrant testament to the intertwining of revelry, culture, and mythology. The festival was inspired...