Writers Dig Whiskey, Episode 1 – Dorothy Parker
Famous Writers Who Enjoyed Drinking Whiskey
Ever wonder what your favorite writers were drinking back in the day? Take a wild guess… it was probably whiskey!
Today we’re launching a series of posts dedicated to famous writers and their favorite cocktail recipes.
DOROTHY PARKER
Dorothy Parker was an American poet, short-story writer, critic, satirist and screenwriter. Although her successes include two Academy Awards nominations, her involvement in left-wing politics led her to the famous Hollywood blacklist of Senator Joe McCarthy of Wisconsin.
Her taste for alcohol is said to come from an unhappy childhood and several failed marriages. Despite that being a pretty sad reason to become a whiskey fan, she remained a vibrant, independent spirit until her death. She couldn’t stand, in her words, to have put “all her eggs in one bastard”.
One of her most famous poems speaks about her taste for whiskey and love of independence:
"I wish I could drink like a lady
I can take one or two at the most
Three and I’m under the table
Four and I’m under the host"
Recipe – Dorothy’s Favorite Whiskey Sour
- 1.5oz Bourbon
- .75oz fresh lemon juice
- .75oz simple syrup (one part sugar, one part water)
- Cherry or lemon wedge to garnish
Add all the ingredients in a shaker and fill with ice. Shake, strain and serve on the rocks.
In the spirit of Ms. Parker, enjoy your whiskey (and enjoy it responsibly). As always: Let us know what you think in the comments below!