While the drinks we celebrate in The Alchemist are distilled, many are also steeped in lore.
Whether they’re murky origin myths, tales of legendary proportions, or simple yarns warped by tellings and retellings in countless bars, pubs and speakeasies over the years, these stories add a dramatic layer of interest to our favourite spirits and cocktails.
In this issue we shine a light on several of these drinks of much-debated birth, including Old Tom gin and the notorious Green Fairy itself, absinthe. We’re also hoping something else will be shining by the time you read this. It’s supposed to be summer, after all. Perfect timing, then, for the blender to come back into vogue behind the bar. “Crushed ice” doesn’t need to be a dirty term in the cocktail world, and our recipes will show you why.
Of course, it’s also the best time of year to reacquaint yourself with Margarita. Just don’t expect a straight answer about her back story.
