Micawber's Gin-Punch Delight

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 cocktail, inspired by Dickens' character Wilkins Micawber, is a warm and fragrant gin-based drink that perfectly combines the flavors of lemon, sugar, honey, and spices. It's a delightful and comforting beverage that brings to mind the cozy feeling of a hot toddy, making it a perfect choice for the colder seasons.

Micawber's Gin-Punch Delight

A warm and fragrant gin punch inspired by Charles Dickens' character, Wilkins Micawber, featuring the delightful combination of lemon, sugar, honey, and spices.

4.06 from 40 votes

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon through a strainer directly into a warmed, heatproof glass.
  2. Add the dark brown sugar and honey, then stir to combine.
  3. Sprinkle in a pinch of ground cinnamon and add a clove to the glass.
  4. Fill the glass three-quarters full with water that has just boiled, then stir.
  5. Add the Madeira and London dry gin, and stir gently with a spoon or a cinnamon stick, if preferred.
  6. Grate a little nutmeg on top and serve.