There is a unique and quiet magic in the act of reading. With every turn of the page, we are transported to different worlds, we fall in love with characters who feel like old friends, and we lose ourselves in stories that linger long after the final chapter. It's an intimate experience, a conversation between the author's imagination and our own. But what if we could enhance that magic? What if we could taste the sun-drenched coast of Italy in Call Me By Your Name, or sip on the enchanted, starlit skies of Velaris from A Court of Thorns and Roses? Welcome to the delightful world of literary-themed drinks, a trend that has been bubbling up on platforms like Pinterest and TikTok, inviting readers to engage with their favorite books in a vibrant, new, and delicious way.

This summer, the trend is all about creating immersive reading experiences. It’s about more than just a glass of wine with your book club; it’s about crafting a beverage that serves as a sensory extension of the story itself. Think beyond the simple "Tequila Mockingbird" and imagine a smoky Old Fashioned that captures the brooding atmosphere of Wuthering Heights, or a sparkling, floral spritz that embodies the effervescent charm of a Jane Austen heroine. These are drinks designed to be savored, to spark conversation, and to deepen our connection to the literary worlds we so adore.

This collection of ten summer drinks is your invitation to play bartender and bibliophile. Each recipe is inspired by a beloved book, thoughtfully crafted with flavors and aesthetics that echo its narrative heart. We’ll explore both cocktails and mocktails, ensuring every reader can raise a glass to their favorite tales. And as we mix and muddle, we’ll also touch upon the art of creating moments—whether it's a quiet, solo reading session or a lively book club gathering. After all, a great drink, much like a great book, is an experience worth sharing, a sentiment that resonates with the curated beverage explorations you might find in the Drink Ideas category on That Love Podcast. So, let’s get ready to shake, stir, and sip our way through a literary summer like no other.

1. The Great Gatsby: The 'Green Light' Mint Julep

No literary party is as iconic as the lavish, champagne-fueled soirées thrown by Jay Gatsby. His West Egg mansion was a beacon of hope and hedonism, all of it aimed at capturing the attention of Daisy Buchanan across the bay. This drink is a tribute to that singular, obsessive focus: the green light at the end of Daisy's dock, a symbol of Gatsby's elusive American Dream. A classic Mint Julep, with its crisp, cool, and undeniably American character, is the perfect vessel for this tribute.

The Literary Connection: The Mint Julep is a drink steeped in Southern tradition and old money, a world that both Gatsby and Daisy inhabit. The cool, refreshing mint and the strong, smooth bourbon reflect the exhilarating yet ultimately fraught nature of their romance. The vibrant green of the mint is, of course, a direct nod to that symbolic green light, the "orgastic future that year by year recedes before us."

The Recipe:

• Ingredients:

  • 2 oz Bourbon whiskey

  • 1/4 oz simple syrup

  • 8-10 fresh mint leaves, plus a large sprig for garnish

  • Crushed ice

  • A silver julep cup or a highball glass

• Instructions:

  1. Place the mint leaves and simple syrup in the bottom of your chilled julep cup or glass.

  2. Gently muddle the mint leaves. The goal is to release their essential oils, not to shred them into tiny pieces.

  3. Add the bourbon and stir briefly.

  4. Fill the glass halfway with crushed ice and stir with a bar spoon until the outside of the cup becomes frosty.

  5. Pack the glass tightly with more crushed ice, creating a snow-cone-like mound on top.

  6. Garnish with a large, fresh mint sprig. Before placing it in the drink, gently slap the sprig against your hand to release its aroma.

• Mocktail Version: The 'East Egg' Mint Iced Tea:

  • Muddle mint and simple syrup as above. Add 4 oz of strongly brewed, chilled black tea instead of bourbon. Top with crushed ice and garnish.

The Vibe & The Connection: This is a sophisticated and classic drink, perfect for a warm summer evening spent contemplating big dreams. It's a statement piece, much like Gatsby himself. Crafting a perfect julep takes a bit of care and attention to detail, much like planning a truly memorable celebration. For those looking to host their own sophisticated gatherings, exploring a curated list of drinks can set the perfect tone. For more inspiration, check out this list of 8 Iconic 4th of July Cocktails to Light Up Your Celebration, which features other timeless American classics.

2. Circe: The 'Aeaean Sunset' Spiced Apricot & Honey Smash

Madeline Miller’s Circe is a breathtaking epic of a goddess finding her own power in exile on the island of Aeaea. Her story is one of witchcraft, transformation, and a deep connection to the natural world. This drink is inspired by the sun-drenched, herb-infused landscape of her island home, a concoction of sweet, golden fruits and a hint of something wild and magical.

The Literary Connection: Circe is a powerful sorceress and a master of herbs and potions (pharmaka). This drink reflects her craft, combining the golden sweetness of apricots and the ancient, mythological resonance of honey with the earthy, savory notes of thyme. It's a drink that feels both nourishing and bewitching, a taste of the wild magic of Aeaea. The touch of spice from the ginger beer hints at the fire and resilience within Circe herself.

The Recipe:

• Ingredients:

  • 2 oz Gin (a botanical gin works beautifully here) or a non-alcoholic gin alternative like Monday Gin

  • 2 ripe apricots, pitted and quartered

  • 1/2 oz honey syrup (equal parts honey and hot water, stirred until dissolved)

  • 2 sprigs of fresh thyme

  • 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice

  • Spicy ginger beer to top

  • A slice of apricot and a thyme sprig for garnish

• Instructions:

  1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the apricot quarters with the honey syrup and the leaves from one sprig of thyme. Muddle until the apricots are well broken down.

  2. Add the gin (or non-alcoholic alternative) and lemon juice to the shaker.

  3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.

  4. Double-strain the mixture (using both the shaker's built-in strainer and a fine-mesh sieve) into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. This ensures a smooth, pulp-free drink.

  5. Top with a splash of spicy ginger beer.

  6. Garnish with a fresh slice of apricot and a sprig of thyme.

The Vibe & The Connection: This is a drink for the modern-day goddess, a celebration of independence and the magic of the natural world. It’s complex, earthy, and utterly enchanting. It’s a sophisticated and mindful choice, perfect for those who appreciate nuanced flavors. For those looking to explore more sophisticated non-alcoholic options, this article on the Delicious Non-Alcoholic Spritz offers some wonderfully elegant ideas for mindful sipping.

3. Pride and Prejudice: The 'Pemberley Garden' Earl Grey & Elderflower Collins

Jane Austen’s world is one of elegant balls, witty banter, and the delicate dance of courtship. Pride and Prejudice is her masterpiece, and this drink is a tribute to its spirited heroine, Elizabeth Bennet, and the moment her perceptions begin to shift upon seeing the beautiful and natural grounds of Mr. Darcy’s estate, Pemberley. It’s a drink that’s as refreshing, proper, and surprisingly complex as Lizzy herself.

The Literary Connection: This drink combines two quintessentially English flavors: Earl Grey tea and elderflower. The floral, delicate notes of the elderflower represent the polite society and the romance of the era, while the robust, bergamot-infused Earl Grey tea adds a layer of depth and character, much like Elizabeth’s own sharp wit and intelligence. It's a sophisticated twist on a classic Tom Collins, served tall and sparkling.

The Recipe:

• Ingredients:

  • 2 oz Earl Grey-infused gin (see note below)

  • 1 oz elderflower liqueur (like St-Germain)

  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice

  • Chilled club soda

  • A long ribbon of cucumber and a lemon twist for garnish

• Earl Grey-Infused Gin:

  • Simply add 2 Earl Grey tea bags to 1 cup of your favorite gin. Let it infuse for 1-2 hours (taste it periodically) until you have a distinct tea flavor. Remove the tea bags. For a quicker version, brew a very strong, concentrated cup of Earl Grey tea and let it cool.

• Instructions:

  1. Fill a Collins glass with ice.

  2. Add the Earl Grey-infused gin, elderflower liqueur, and lemon juice to the glass.

  3. Stir to combine.

  4. Top with chilled club soda.

  5. Garnish with a long cucumber ribbon placed inside the glass and a twist of lemon.

• Mocktail Version:

  • Use 3 oz of strongly brewed, chilled Earl Grey tea in place of the infused gin, and 1 oz of elderflower cordial instead of the liqueur.

The Vibe & The Connection: This is the perfect drink for a garden party, a bridal shower, or a sophisticated brunch. It’s light, elegant, and timelessly chic. It's a drink that sparks conversation and feels incredibly refined. For those looking to craft drinks for special, celebratory occasions, exploring different flavor combinations is key. This piece on 8 Must-Try Juneteenth Cocktails That Pack a Punch showcases how to use vibrant, meaningful ingredients to create a festive atmosphere.

4. A Court of Thorns and Roses: The 'Velaris Starfall' Blackberry & Violette Sour

Sarah J. Maas's A Court of Thorns and Roses series has captured the imaginations of millions with its epic fantasy, swoon-worthy romance, and the breathtaking beauty of the Night Court. This cocktail is an ode to Velaris, the hidden city of starlight, and the magical Starfall ceremony. It’s a drink that’s as dark, enchanting, and beautiful as the High Lord of the Night Court himself.

The Literary Connection: The deep, dark purple of this drink comes from muddled blackberries and a touch of Crème de Violette, echoing the night sky of Velaris. The edible glitter is a must, transforming the drink into a swirling galaxy of stars with every stir, directly mimicking the magic of Starfall. The egg white (or aquafaba) creates a frothy, cloud-like top, adding a dreamy, ethereal quality to this otherworldly concoction.

The Recipe:

• Ingredients:

  • 2 oz Gin or Vodka

  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice

  • 1/2 oz Crème de Violette (a beautiful floral liqueur)

    
    

  • 1/2 oz simple syrup

  • 5-6 fresh blackberries

  • 1 egg white (or 1 oz of aquafaba for a vegan version)

  • A pinch of edible glitter (silver or iridescent)

  • A blackberry and a star anise for garnish

• Instructions:

  1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the blackberries with the simple syrup.

  2. Add the gin, lemon juice, Crème de Violette, and the egg white (or aquafaba) to the shaker.

  3. Dry Shake: Do not add ice yet. Seal the shaker and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds. This emulsifies the egg white and creates a rich, creamy foam.

  4. Wet Shake: Now, fill the shaker with ice and shake again for another 15 seconds until well-chilled.

  5. Double-strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass.

  6. Sprinkle the edible glitter over the foam. You can find a great selection of food-grade glitter from suppliers like Fancy Sprinkles.

  7. Garnish with a fresh blackberry and a star anise.

The Vibe & The Connection: This is a show-stopping, magical drink designed to impress. It’s perfect for a themed party or a special night in where you want to add a touch of fantasy and romance. It’s a creative and ambitious cocktail that’s incredibly rewarding to make. For those who love a drink with a story and a bit of flair, exploring bold flavor combinations is always a treat. For more ideas on creating impactful drinks, check out this list of 8 Bold Whisky Cocktails to Ignite Your Independence Day Celebration.

5. The Song of Achilles: The 'Patroclus's Kiss' Honeyed Fig & Rosemary Old Fashioned

Madeline Miller's poignant retelling of the Trojan War through the eyes of Patroclus is a story of profound love, destiny, and devastating loss. This cocktail is a tribute to the tender, quiet moments of love between Achilles and Patroclus, a drink that is both sweet and strong, with a touch of herbaceous, sun-baked Greece.

The Literary Connection: This drink is a gentle, nuanced take on a classic Old Fashioned. The fig jam or muddled fresh figs provide a deep, honeyed sweetness, reminiscent of the fruits of ancient Greece. The rosemary adds a fragrant, earthy note, evoking the rugged landscape and the quiet moments of peace the two lovers shared. The strength of the whiskey represents the epic, heroic world they inhabit, while the overall profile is one of warmth, sweetness, and a touch of bittersweetness.

The Recipe:

• Ingredients:

  • 2 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey

  • 1 bar spoon of fig jam (or 2 muddled fresh figs)

  • 1 sprig of fresh rosemary

  • 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters

  • A large ice cube

  • An orange peel and a fresh rosemary sprig for garnish

• Instructions:

  1. In a mixing glass, gently muddle the rosemary sprig with the fig jam and bitters.

  2. Add the whiskey and fill the mixing glass with ice.

  3. Stir with a bar spoon for about 20-30 seconds until the outside of the glass is well-chilled.

  4. Place a large ice cube in a rocks glass.

  5. Strain the cocktail over the large ice cube.

  6. Express the orange peel over the drink (squeeze the peel over the glass to release its oils) and rub it around the rim of the glass before dropping it in.

  7. Garnish with a fresh sprig of rosemary.

• Mocktail Version:

  • Muddle the fig and rosemary as above. Add 4 oz of a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative, like Spiritless Kentucky 74, and a splash of water.

The Vibe & The Connection: This is a contemplative, sophisticated sipper. It’s a drink for a quiet evening, perhaps spent rereading a favorite passage or having a deep conversation with a loved one. It’s a drink that honors the complexity of love and memory. Making a classic cocktail, even with a twist, is a timeless tradition, much like celebrating the important people in our lives. For more ideas on classic drinks for a special occasion, consider this guide to 10 Classic Cocktails to Mix for Dad on Father's Day.

6. Where the Crawdads Sing: The 'Marsh Girl's' Lavender & Blueberry Lemonade

Delia Owens's novel is a love letter to the marshes of North Carolina and a powerful story of resilience, isolation, and the quiet strength of its protagonist, Kya. This drink is inspired by the wild beauty of the marsh—the wildflowers, the berries, and the simple, natural world that Kya calls home.

The Literary Connection: This lemonade is a beautiful, dusky purple, reminiscent of a marsh sunset. The blueberries represent the wild berries Kya would forage, while the lavender adds a delicate, floral note, evoking the wildflowers and the quiet, observant nature of the "Marsh Girl." It’s a drink that is at once wild and gentle, much like Kya herself.

The Recipe:

• Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

  • 1/2 oz lavender simple syrup (you can buy this or easily make it at home, similar to the lavender syrup in this Smitten Kitchen recipe)

  • 2 oz fresh lemon juice

  • Water

  • Ice

  • A lemon wheel and a sprig of fresh lavender for garnish

• Instructions:

  1. In the bottom of a tall Collins glass, muddle the blueberries with the lavender simple syrup.

  2. Add the fresh lemon juice and stir.

  3. Fill the glass with ice.

  4. Top with cold water and stir until everything is well combined.

  5. Garnish with a fresh lemon wheel and a sprig of lavender.

• Cocktail Version: The 'Kya's Kick' Collins:

  • Add 2 oz of vodka or a light gin before topping with water for a spirited version.

The Vibe & The Connection: This is a wonderfully refreshing and soulful drink, perfect for a lazy summer afternoon spent outdoors. It’s about appreciating the simple beauty of nature. It’s a drink that feels grounding and peaceful. This connection to nature and simple pleasures can be incredibly restorative. For those planning an outdoor gathering, having a signature party drink is a must. For more ideas, check out this list of 8 Patriotic Punches and Party Drinks to Serve Your 4th of July Crowd.

7. Dune: The 'Spice Melange' Spiced Iced Chai

Frank Herbert’s Dune is a monumental work of science fiction, set on the desert planet of Arrakis, the sole source of the universe's most valuable substance: the spice melange. The spice is a powerful, life-extending, and mind-altering substance, and this drink is a non-psychoactive tribute to its complex, aromatic nature.

The Literary Connection: The "spice" in Dune is described as having a scent like cinnamon. This drink is built around a base of strongly brewed, spiced chai tea, which is rich with notes of cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and ginger. It's a drink that is both warming and cooling, reflecting the harsh desert climate of Arrakis. A touch of orange adds a hint of citrusy brightness, a rare luxury on a desert planet. The creamy oat milk gives it a smooth, satisfying finish.

The Recipe:

• Ingredients:

  • 2 strong chai tea bags (or 2 tablespoons of loose-leaf chai)

  • 1 cup of boiling water

  • 1/2 cup oat milk (or your preferred milk)

  • 1/2 oz simple syrup or to taste

  • A dash of orange bitters or a squeeze of fresh orange juice

  • Ice

  • A cinnamon stick and a star anise for garnish

• Instructions:

  1. Brew a very strong, concentrated cup of chai tea by steeping the tea bags in 1 cup of boiling water for at least 10 minutes. Let it cool completely.

  2. Fill a tall glass with ice.

  3. Pour the cooled chai concentrate over the ice.

  4. Add the oat milk, simple syrup, and orange bitters.

  5. Stir well to combine all the flavors.

  6. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a star anise.

The Vibe & The Connection: This is an incredibly flavorful and aromatic drink, perfect for anyone who loves complex, spicy flavors. It’s a great alternative to coffee for a mid-day pick-me-up. It’s a drink that feels both ancient and futuristic, a perfect fit for the world of Dune. For those who enjoy a cozy, flavorful beverage, exploring different latte recipes can be a real treat. For a warm, comforting alternative, check out this recipe for a Spiced Chai Latte.

8. The Secret History: The 'Bacchanal' Blood Orange & Rosemary Punch

Donna Tartt's The Secret History is a dark, atmospheric novel about a group of eccentric classics students at a Vermont college who, under the influence of their charismatic professor, push the boundaries of morality. The story is steeped in Greek mythology, intellectualism, and a sense of impending doom, culminating in a frenzied, modern-day Bacchanal.

The Literary Connection: This punch is a tribute to that fateful Bacchanal. The deep, crimson color from the blood orange juice is dramatic and evocative. The rosemary adds an earthy, rustic element, reminiscent of ancient Greek rituals. The bitterness of the Aperol (in the cocktail version) adds a sophisticated, slightly ominous edge, hinting at the dark turn the story takes. This is a drink meant for a group, a communal bowl of something beautiful and dangerous.

The Recipe (for a small pitcher):

• Ingredients:

  • 2 cups fresh blood orange juice

  • 1 cup non-alcoholic sparkling wine or sparkling water

  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice

  • 2-3 sprigs of fresh rosemary

  • Slices of blood orange and orange for garnish

• Cocktail Version:

  • Add 1 cup of Aperol or Campari to the pitcher for that classic, bitter spritz flavor.

• Instructions:

  1. In a large pitcher, combine the blood orange juice and fresh orange juice.

  2. Gently bruise the rosemary sprigs in your hands to release their oils and add them to the pitcher.

  3. Refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.

  4. Right before serving, add the chilled sparkling wine or water and the orange slices.

  5. Serve in wine glasses or coupes over ice.

The Vibe & The Connection: This is a dramatic, sophisticated party punch. It’s perfect for a dinner party or a book club meeting where you want to serve something memorable and a little bit theatrical. It’s a drink that encourages communal sipping and lively discussion. A frozen version of this would also be incredible for a hot day. For a similar vibe, check out this recipe for an Easy Frozen Aperol Paloma.

9. Alice's Adventures in Wonderland: The 'Curiouser & Curiouser' Color-Changing Iced Tea

Lewis Carroll's classic tale is a whirlwind of whimsy, nonsense, and surreal transformations. This magical, color-changing iced tea is a tribute to the fantastical and unpredictable nature of Wonderland. It's a simple trick of science that feels like pure magic, perfect for delighting guests of all ages.

The Literary Connection: This drink starts as a beautiful, deep blue and then, with the addition of lemon juice, magically transforms into a vibrant purple or pink. This transformation perfectly captures the "Drink Me" potion and the ever-changing, topsy-turvy logic of Wonderland. The simple act of adding citrus causes a chemical reaction that changes the pH of the tea, resulting in a stunning visual effect.

The Recipe:

• Ingredients:

  • 2 teaspoons butterfly pea flower tea (you can find this online or at specialty tea shops; The Republic of Tea has a great option)

  • 1 cup boiling water

  • Simple syrup or honey to taste

  • Fresh lemon juice

  • Ice

  • Lemon wheels for garnish

• Instructions:

  1. Steep the butterfly pea flower tea in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes, until you have a deep blue liquid. Let it cool completely.

  2. Fill a clear glass with ice.

  3. Pour the cooled blue tea over the ice. Add sweetener to your liking and stir.

  4. The Magic: Serve the glass of blue tea with a small pitcher or shot glass of fresh lemon juice on the side.

  5. Encourage your guest to pour the lemon juice into the blue tea and watch the color instantly change from blue to purple or pink.

  6. Garnish with a lemon wheel.

The Vibe & The Connection: This is a fun, interactive, and utterly whimsical drink. It’s perfect for a themed party, a child’s birthday, or anytime you want to add a touch of wonder to your day. It’s a drink that is pure, joyful entertainment. For another fun and whimsical drink idea that's perfect for a cozy, sophisticated evening, consider the London Fog Cocktail.

10. One Hundred Years of Solitude: The 'Macondo's Memory' Mango & Coffee Tonic

Gabriel García Márquez's masterpiece is a sprawling, multi-generational epic filled with magical realism, where the extraordinary is treated as ordinary. This drink is inspired by the novel's vibrant, tropical setting and its deep connection to memory, myth, and the cyclical nature of time. It's an unusual but surprisingly delicious combination that reflects the novel's unique blend of the familiar and the fantastical.

The Literary Connection: This drink combines two key elements of Latin American culture: coffee and tropical fruit. The coffee represents the recurring themes of labor, industry, and the passage of time in the novel, while the sweet, luscious mango evokes the hot, humid, and magical atmosphere of Macondo. The fizziness of the tonic water adds a touch of effervescence, like a fleeting memory or a whisper of magic. It’s a drink that shouldn’t work, but in the world of magical realism, it absolutely does.

The Recipe:

• Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup ripe mango puree (fresh or store-bought)

  • 2 oz chilled espresso or strong cold brew coffee

  • 4 oz premium tonic water (like Fever-Tree or Q Mixers)

  • Ice

  • A slice of fresh mango or a lime wheel for garnish

• Instructions:

  1. Fill a tall glass with ice.

  2. Add the mango puree to the bottom of the glass.

  3. Slowly pour the tonic water over the mango puree.

  4. Gently pour the chilled espresso over the back of a spoon on top of the tonic water to create a layered effect.

  5. Garnish with a slice of mango or a lime.

  6. Stir before drinking to combine all the flavors.

The Vibe & The Connection: This is an adventurous and modern drink for someone with a curious palate. It’s a fantastic brunch cocktail or a unique afternoon pick-me-up. It's a drink that challenges expectations and sparks curiosity, much like the novel itself. For those who love a good coffee cocktail and are looking for another energizing and delicious option, the Carajillo Coffee Cocktail is an absolute must-try.

Conclusion: A Toast to the Stories That Shape Us

The worlds we discover in books are boundless, and the joy they bring can be extended far beyond the final page. By pairing our favorite stories with a thoughtfully crafted drink, we create a multi-sensory experience that deepens our appreciation and helps us forge new memories. These ten recipes are merely a starting point, a springboard for your own creativity. Perhaps Moby Dick inspires a salty, sea-foam topped margarita, or The Lord of the Rings calls for an earthy, mushroom-infused gin.

The beauty of this trend lies in its personalization. It’s an invitation to engage with literature on your own terms, to mix and muddle your way to a deeper connection with the stories that have shaped you. So, the next time you settle in with a beloved book, consider what it might taste like. You might just discover your new favorite drink and a whole new way to love your favorite story. Cheers to a summer filled with great books and even better drinks.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best types of books to inspire drink recipes? Books with strong settings, distinct moods, or recurring food and drink motifs are fantastic sources of inspiration. Fantasy novels often have magical elements that translate well into creative drinks, while classic literature can inspire timeless, elegant cocktails.

2. How can I make a drink "book-themed" without a direct recipe from the book? Think symbolically. Use colors, ingredients, and garnishes that represent a character, a setting, or a key theme. A dark, smoky drink could represent a brooding anti-hero, while a light, floral drink could evoke a romantic, pastoral setting.

3. What are some easy ways to make my literary drinks look more professional? Garnishes are key! A simple twist of citrus peel, a sprig of a fresh herb, a sugar or salt rim, or a unique garnish like star anise can instantly elevate your drink. Using interesting glassware also makes a big difference.

4. Can I create non-alcoholic versions of all these drinks? Yes, absolutely! Most cocktails can be adapted into delicious mocktails. You can use non-alcoholic spirits, replace liqueurs with flavored syrups or cordials, and use sparkling water or non-alcoholic wine in place of champagne or prosecco.

5. What is a "dry shake" and why is it important for drinks with egg white? A dry shake is when you shake the ingredients of a cocktail without ice first. This is crucial for drinks with egg white (or aquafaba) as it allows the protein to emulsify and create a thick, stable, and creamy foam that won't be diluted by melting ice.

6. Where can I find unique ingredients like Crème de Violette or butterfly pea flower tea? Well-stocked liquor stores will often carry a variety of specialty liqueurs. For unique teas and other non-alcoholic ingredients, specialty food stores, tea shops, or online retailers are your best bet.

7. How do I make infused spirits, like the Earl Grey gin? Infusing spirits is surprisingly easy. Simply add your flavoring agent (like tea bags, herbs, or spices) to your chosen spirit in a sealed jar. Let it sit for a period of time, tasting it periodically until it reaches your desired flavor intensity. The infusion time can range from a few hours to a few days.

8. What's the best way to make crushed ice at home? If you don't have an ice crusher, you can place ice cubes in a clean tea towel or a sturdy canvas bag and gently whack them with a rolling pin or a meat mallet until they are crushed to your desired consistency.

9. Any tips for hosting a book-themed cocktail party? Choose a theme (like a specific author or genre), create a small menu of 2-3 themed drinks (with mocktail options), and consider making small cards that explain the literary connection for each drink. It’s a great conversation starter!

10. I'm not very creative. Where can I find more literary drink recipes? Pinterest is an excellent resource; search for "literary cocktails" or "bookish drinks." There are also several books dedicated to the topic, such as Tequila Mockingbird: Cocktails with a Literary Twist by Tim Federle, that offer a wealth of clever and delicious recipes.