What came first, medicine or spirits?
Nearly every ingredient in cocktails, plus beer and wine, was used as medicine at one point in time. “Doctors and Distillers” traces the intertwined history of booze and medicine, - and all the mixers too.
Listen to the “Served Up” podcast with guest Camper English: Spotify | Apple Podcasts
How did the alchemists use wine?
When alchemists first concentrated alcohol in wine via distillation, they were trying to make medicines, not beverages.
Is there a classic cocktail that was once used for medicinal purposes?
The original cocktail (aka the Old Fashioned) was a hangover drink with stomach-soothing bitters, served at room temperature in the morning. Yuck!
Which common ingredients used in cocktails today were used for early cures?
Citrus for scurvy, tonic water for malaria, root beer for syphilis, Fernet-Branca for cholera, Chartreuse as a poison antidote, and more!
Leave us with a toast!
"To your health!"
About Camper English
Camper English is a cocktails and spirits writer and speaker who has covered the craft cocktail renaissance for over 15 years. He has contributed to more than 50 publications around the world, including Popular Science, Saveur, Details, Whisky Advocate, and Drinks International.
With a focus on the nerdy side of mixology, he has studied everything from the history of carbonation to the science of clear ice cubes. He has been awarded International Cognac Writer of the Year by the Bureau National Interprofessional du Cognac and Best Cocktail Writer at the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation’s Spirited Awards. His website is Alcademics.com.
Follow Camper on social:
Twitter: @alcademics or @cocktailsafe
Instagram: @alcademics
Purchase “Doctors and Distillers: The Remarkable Medicical History or Beer, Wine, and Spirits”
Camper supports charitable work and is passionate about helping others. You can lend your support to one of Camper's causes through the SF-Marin Food Bank.
Tune in to the Served Up Podcast
Southern Glazer’s "Served Up" podcast has been elevating voices in the beverage alcohol industry since 2020. Now with Eric Hemer, MW, MS, joining Bridget Albert as co-host, expect thought leadership, industry insights, exclusive interviews, and inspiring conversations that drive innovation. Join us weekly as co-hosts Bridget and Eric stir up the spirit of hospitality with lively conversations and plenty of personality.
Subscribe here: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Amazon Music
Bridget Albert
Sr. Director, External Comms & CSR
Date Published
January 25, 2024
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