The Thousand Autumns of Jacob de Zoet + Morning Cherry Blossoms
“The Thousand Autumns of Jacob de Zoet” by David Mitchell is a story set in the late 18th century. We follow around Jacob de Zoet, a Dutch trader who works for the Dutch East India Trading Company, while he lives and works on the trading post of Dejima in the harbor of Nagasaki. He is sent there to try to figure out how corrupt the previous Chief Resident was. However, in the midst of these tasks, Mr. de Zoet becomes enamoured with the a rarity - a local midwife allowed on Dejima in order to study with the onsite doctor. Jacob’s life quickly becomes intertwined with local life and he steps into a world of betrayal, cultural differences he is trying to understanding, and the sinister ways of a mountain cult. (Published by Sceptre Books)
Morning Cherry Blossom
(As seen on Instagram via @narphorium)
Such a complicated and delicately balanced book deserves the same in its accompanying cocktail. Morning Cherry Blossoms is just the thing. Take a look at this most beautiful drink and find the subtle bergamot flavors as you flip through the pages of this historical fictional piece. Let the gin take you away into days of trade and the yuzu and cherry blossoms bring you closer to Japanese flavors. Mix up this variation of a Bee’s Knees and get drinking while reading.
Morning Cherry Blossoms
- 2 oz. Ki No Bi Kyoto Dry Gin
- 3/4 oz. Yuzu Juice
- 1/4 oz. Lemon Juice
- 1/2 oz. Cherry Blossom Honey Syrup (1:1)
- 3/4 oz. Egg Whites
- 1 Spray Cherry Blossom Extract
- 1 Spray Miracle Mile Bergamot Bitters
Reverse dry shake and double strain into a chilled glass. Spray Cherry Blossom Extract and Bergamot Bitters on top of foam. Garnish with fresh cherry blossoms.
