I started reading His Excellency: George Washington by Joseph J. Ellis early last week. It's a good read so far, easy to get into. My schedule was completely out of whack so I really appreciate that this is a book you can pick up and put down repeatedly without losing momentum.
First two take aways from this book:
(1) I had no idea that white slavery was so prevealent back in the mid to late 1700s
(2) The mystic and mythology of the first President was/is impressive
To keep this project fun I also am familiarizing myself with the favorite foods and bevereages of each president. "His Excellency" (as Mr. Washington preferred to be addressed) was fond of whiskey and Madeira Wine. I found this drink recipe on a list of Presidential libations and plan to give it a whirl this weekend.
American Whiskey Punch
Muddle sugar with the lemon peels. Add fresh lemon juice and 8 ounces water, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Add rye whiskey and sparkling water. Serve over large ice block in punch bowl. Ladle into wine glasses or punch cups and garnish with lemon wheels.
First two take aways from this book:
(1) I had no idea that white slavery was so prevealent back in the mid to late 1700s
(2) The mystic and mythology of the first President was/is impressive
To keep this project fun I also am familiarizing myself with the favorite foods and bevereages of each president. "His Excellency" (as Mr. Washington preferred to be addressed) was fond of whiskey and Madeira Wine. I found this drink recipe on a list of Presidential libations and plan to give it a whirl this weekend.
American Whiskey Punch
- 1 cup sugar
- Peel of 2 lemons
- 4 ounces fresh lemon juice
- 8 ounces water
- 16 ounces rye whiskey
- 3 cups sparkling water
- Large ice block
- Lemon wheels, for garnish
Muddle sugar with the lemon peels. Add fresh lemon juice and 8 ounces water, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Add rye whiskey and sparkling water. Serve over large ice block in punch bowl. Ladle into wine glasses or punch cups and garnish with lemon wheels.