by Julia Halina Hadas
*I received a copy of this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
I really love reading cookbooks, but to be honest, I’m a harder sell for mixology books because I’m pretty clueless about alcohol. Basically, I know it gets you drunk and sometimes it tastes better than other times! I usually only go for themed mixology books, like Tequila Mockingbird and Gone With the Gin. So taking a mixology book and fusing it with elements of witchcraft and paired crystal magic — that part was actually an easy sell for me.
The book provides a brief, but comprehensive, introduction to how alcohol and magic have historically been intertwined, follows up with modern attitudes toward both witchcraft and alcohol consumption, as well as a word about responsible alcohol consumption. Then, it provides the same sort of introduction to mixology, from tools of the trade to techniques. Next, it brings together the sacred elements of ritual and intention with technical elements of preparation, as well as making sure your prep area is clean psychically and for the best results.
The book contains recipes for syrups, bitters, and “shrubs” (a new one for me!) that are used throughout the book’s recipes, but that an adventurous mixologist (or someone feeling fancy in quarantine!) can experiment with to create their own signature drink.
Part 2 of the book is the recipes themselves, which are categorized into seasons. If gin’s not your jam, don’t worry — whatever your drink of choice, it’s represented in the recipes. Even better — there’s a recipe in here that will make that one drink you don’t like (for me, that’s scotch) and make you think, “Well, that actually sounds pretty good.”
First set of drinks I plan on making:
(Your mileage may vary)
Fall – Stinging Scorpion, Witch’s Cauldron
Winter – Golden Ram, Imbolc Cleansing Lemon Drop
Spring – The Green Man (bonus, if you’re a Type O Negative fan!!), Love’s Lucky Potion
Summer – Lavender Sazerac, Siren’s Song
I would say that I’ve got over half the book tagged with recipes I want to try, and quarantine is the ideal time to try it out. I am excited especially to test out some of these drinks for summer holidays and full moons.