Dickensian Gin Punch

According to his great-grandson, Cedric, Charles Dickens ''loved the ritual of mixing the evening glass of Gin Punch, which he performed with all the energy and discrimination of Mr. Micawber.'' This warming concoction, reminiscent of a hot toddy, combines the flavors of lemon, honey, spices, and spirits to create a fragrant and flavorful drink fit for a cozy evening in.

Dickensian Gin Punch

A warming and fragrant gin punch inspired by Charles Dickens' love for the ritual of mixing evening drinks with all the energy and discrimination of Mr. Micawber.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon dark brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • Pinch ground cinnamon
  • 1 clove
  • 3 oz. water just off the boil
  • 1 1/2 oz. Madeira
  • 1 1/2 oz. London dry gin
  • 1 stick cinnamon (optional)
  • Grated nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Juice 1/2 lemon through a strainer directly into a warmed, heatproof glass.
  2. Add the dark brown sugar and honey, then stir to combine.
  3. Add the ground cinnamon and clove to the glass.
  4. Fill the glass three-quarters full with water just off the boil, then stir.
  5. Add the Madeira and London dry gin, then gently stir with a spoon or cinnamon stick if desired.
  6. Grate a little nutmeg on top before serving.