Words of Wisdom

In celebration of World Book Day (April 23), I had the inspired idea to pick up a book. OK, I know what you’re thinking, that’s not particularly inspired. I pick up a book for every book related holiday, it’s true. Let’s see, there’s Read a Book Day, Book Lover’s Day, Library Lover’s Day, World Poetry Day, and Drop Everything and Read Day, just to name a few. Prithee don’t forget Talk Like Shakespeare Day, that’s April 23 too! The truth is, I pick up a book all the time and every chance I get – every day is book day around here!

Words of Wisdom by Natasha David

Here's a toast on World Book Day with Words of Wisdom. Now, I don’t propose to have any such syllables at my disposal, and hardly think my thoughts on puzzle boxes and cocktails merit any deep thoughts. No, “Words of Wisdom” is rather the perfectly apropos name of the drink we are toasting with today. Created by celebrated and award winning New York bartender Natasha David (Imbibe’s 2020 Bartender of the Year), it can be found in the pages of her new book, Drink Lightly, in the “gulpable thirst quenchers” section.

some creative substitutions for the Bay Rum bitters

David’s new book is a fabulous resource for low and no alcohol cocktails. She describes the origins of the drink, which uses sage for its calming effects (and to “ward off evil spirits”), and mentions that sage also reminds her of eucalyptus, which ties in nicely with the eucalyptus wood from Sheckel’s book. Honey calms the slight bitterness of the sage, and the tonic bubbles complete the lighthearted drink. David promotes the idea that “serious” and “joyful” should go hand in hand and says, “I wanted to show that one could take craft seriously while simultaneously having fun.” I think that sums up the bespoke world of puzzle boxes rather nicely, too. Here’s to a nightstand stacked with good reads – cheers!

this pair offers sage advice

Words of Wisdom by Natasha David

2 oz sage infused dry white wine

¼ oz honey syrup

½ teaspoon apricot liqueur

2 dashes Miracle Mile Bay Rum Bitters

Tonic water

Combine initial ingredients over ice in a wine glass and top with the tonic. Properly garnished with a bay leaf and lemon wheel, or a citrus bookmark for Book Day.

and explore this cocktail category: